Read story at http://www.silverlight-travel.com/turin/index.php/2009/06/shroud-of-turin-to-boost-religious-travel/
After 10 years of being locked away, the Shroud of Turin is slated for display in 2010. It is normally rolled up and locked away in a silver box, and kept under close guard in the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, with a replica on display. But Pope Benedict has announced that the real thing will be put on display for the faithful to see next year, and as a result, religious travel promises to be booming.
The Shroud is a linen cloth (measuring approximately 14 1/2 x 4 feet) that is believed to have been the burial cloth of Jesus. Many Christians believe that the cloth has an image of a crucified man, with a beard and long hair, with arms folded across his chest. The cloth appears to have blood, seemingly from wounds in the wrists, feet and side.
June 28, 2009
Turkey Introducing ’strategic depth’ to tourism including "faith tourism"
Read the full story at http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/english/opinion/11937017.asp?scr=1
And then yesterday we reported that Bursa is planning to diversify its economy with a tourism campaign that will embrace faith tourism during the month of Ramadan, encouraging visitors to historic mosques and tombs. Planners of this campaign also see potential in sports and nature tourism.
And then yesterday we reported that Bursa is planning to diversify its economy with a tourism campaign that will embrace faith tourism during the month of Ramadan, encouraging visitors to historic mosques and tombs. Planners of this campaign also see potential in sports and nature tourism.
Winston-Salem Targets Religious Groups for Tourism Dollars
By Brent Campbell FOX8 News
June 26, 2009
Read full story at http://www.myfox8.com/news/wghp-winston-salem-religious-tourism-090626,0,3045949.story
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - With nearly 2,000 people in town for five nights, the western North Carolina conference of the AME Zion church is, in many ways, a Godsend to Winston-Salem's struggling tourism industry.
Hotel room sales are down 8 percent in the downtown Twin City Quarter, which includes Embassy Suites and Marriott. So in an effort to reverse that trend, the city's tourism arm has shifted focus from attracting individual and business travelers to youth sporting events, collegiate sports and religious organizations, among others.
"We've had a tough time of it since the fourth quarter last year," said Ron Stephens, of the Twin City Quarter. "Things tanked and tanked quickly, and then the first six months of this year have lagged greatly behind last year."
In a recent study by the Travel Industry Association, one-fourth of travelers said they would be more likely to spend money on a religious trip before an individual vacation.
"In these difficult economic times, it is good to know people of faith do not allow circumstances to determine their actions, particularly as it relates to things of God," said Dr. Seth Lartey, an official in the AME Zion denomination.
And it's that kind of commitment Winston-Salem is banking on.
"I think any sort of faith-based organization is important to everyone, particularly when things are not good," said Stephens.
Once the AME Zion conference concludes, the city will prepare for nearly 8,000 Jehovah's Witnesses, who will arrive over the next four weeks for the group's annual conference.
Copyright © 2009, WGHP-TV
June 26, 2009
Read full story at http://www.myfox8.com/news/wghp-winston-salem-religious-tourism-090626,0,3045949.story
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - With nearly 2,000 people in town for five nights, the western North Carolina conference of the AME Zion church is, in many ways, a Godsend to Winston-Salem's struggling tourism industry.
Hotel room sales are down 8 percent in the downtown Twin City Quarter, which includes Embassy Suites and Marriott. So in an effort to reverse that trend, the city's tourism arm has shifted focus from attracting individual and business travelers to youth sporting events, collegiate sports and religious organizations, among others.
"We've had a tough time of it since the fourth quarter last year," said Ron Stephens, of the Twin City Quarter. "Things tanked and tanked quickly, and then the first six months of this year have lagged greatly behind last year."
In a recent study by the Travel Industry Association, one-fourth of travelers said they would be more likely to spend money on a religious trip before an individual vacation.
"In these difficult economic times, it is good to know people of faith do not allow circumstances to determine their actions, particularly as it relates to things of God," said Dr. Seth Lartey, an official in the AME Zion denomination.
And it's that kind of commitment Winston-Salem is banking on.
"I think any sort of faith-based organization is important to everyone, particularly when things are not good," said Stephens.
Once the AME Zion conference concludes, the city will prepare for nearly 8,000 Jehovah's Witnesses, who will arrive over the next four weeks for the group's annual conference.
Copyright © 2009, WGHP-TV
Turkey becomes growingly popular stop for Muslim pilgrims
Read the full article at http://www.todayszaman.com/tz-web/detaylar.do?load=detay&link=179255&bolum=101
28 June 2009, Sunday
TODAY'S ZAMAN
ROBERTA DAVENPORT İSTANBUL
Here's secitons of the article...
In addition to the waters of the Bosporus and the intrigue of street markets, the nightlife, historic buildings and landmarks at every turn, İstanbul is home to an Islamic history and Muslim-friendly accommodations that are making it an increasingly popular stopover for travelers on their way back from pilgrimages to Mecca.
On a sunny weekday afternoon in the Sultanahmet district, a group of British men form a line outside the Blue Mosque. They are not at the mosque entrance alongside the groups of tourists from Japan, Spain and the US, who await the end of the afternoon prayer so that they can enter and take pictures, but are instead standing around the fountain in the mosque's courtyard, waiting for their turn to make ablutions so that they can join the prayer. The men are among a growing demographic of tourists visiting İstanbul, Muslims from Europe, the United States, Indonesia and beyond who elect to finish off their religious pilgrimages to Mecca in Saudi Arabia with a trip to İstanbul, the last center of the caliphate and the point from which the Muslim world was administrated for centuries.
Muslim tourism needs attention, development
While Turkish tourism and border authorities keep figures on the number of tourists traveling to Turkey from Muslim countries, there are no figures on how many are coming to the country for religiously related purposes. And while tour operators say there has been a noticeable increase in interest in religious tourism packages for Muslims, more effort is needed to help the tourism niche grow. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism and tourism marketing agencies have taken an increased interest in developing Christian and Jewish faith-based tourist packages in recent years, yet growing numbers of Muslim tourists coming to Turkey from Europe and beyond have gained comparatively little attention from tour operators.
Read the rest of the article at http://www.todayszaman.com/tz-web/detaylar.do?load=detay&link=179255&bolum=101
28 June 2009, Sunday
TODAY'S ZAMAN
ROBERTA DAVENPORT İSTANBUL
Here's secitons of the article...
In addition to the waters of the Bosporus and the intrigue of street markets, the nightlife, historic buildings and landmarks at every turn, İstanbul is home to an Islamic history and Muslim-friendly accommodations that are making it an increasingly popular stopover for travelers on their way back from pilgrimages to Mecca.
On a sunny weekday afternoon in the Sultanahmet district, a group of British men form a line outside the Blue Mosque. They are not at the mosque entrance alongside the groups of tourists from Japan, Spain and the US, who await the end of the afternoon prayer so that they can enter and take pictures, but are instead standing around the fountain in the mosque's courtyard, waiting for their turn to make ablutions so that they can join the prayer. The men are among a growing demographic of tourists visiting İstanbul, Muslims from Europe, the United States, Indonesia and beyond who elect to finish off their religious pilgrimages to Mecca in Saudi Arabia with a trip to İstanbul, the last center of the caliphate and the point from which the Muslim world was administrated for centuries.
Muslim tourism needs attention, development
While Turkish tourism and border authorities keep figures on the number of tourists traveling to Turkey from Muslim countries, there are no figures on how many are coming to the country for religiously related purposes. And while tour operators say there has been a noticeable increase in interest in religious tourism packages for Muslims, more effort is needed to help the tourism niche grow. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism and tourism marketing agencies have taken an increased interest in developing Christian and Jewish faith-based tourist packages in recent years, yet growing numbers of Muslim tourists coming to Turkey from Europe and beyond have gained comparatively little attention from tour operators.
Read the rest of the article at http://www.todayszaman.com/tz-web/detaylar.do?load=detay&link=179255&bolum=101
June 27, 2009
World Religious Travel Expo Debuts Theme: Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever
Lexington, Ky. (PRWEB) June 27, 2009 -- The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) has announced "Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever" as its official theme for this fall's World Religious Travel Expo. The newly chosen motto will serve as the guiding principle and overall purpose of the three-day event.
"Our theme serves as an invitation to tap into the flourishing religious travel and hospitality industry," said WRTA president, Kevin J. Wright. "We all know this is a very trying time for many companies. However, as faith tourism provides new market and revenue possibilities, the World Religious Travel Expo provides organizations with a renewed opportunity to experience their best year yet."
Faith-based travel and hospitality has become an important new market segment for many tour operators, travel agents, destinations and suppliers in the industry. In the past year alone, the religious market has taken on even greater significance, due to its recession-proof and groups-dominated attributes. An estimated 75% of faith-based travelers prefer to travel in group settings while 80% would like to repeat their religious travel experience. Challenging times only serve to bring people of faith together in greater numbers for travel or convention purposes; providing a much needed "stimulus" to the industry.
WRTA recently opened registrations for the Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2009, which will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to draw tourism organizations and travel professionals from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association Annual Convention, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking, and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, contact the World Religious Travel Association at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or +1-859-219-3529 or by email headquarters@WRTAreligioustravel.com. For more information about WRTA and the Expo, visit www.WRTAreligioustravel.com and www.WRTAexpo.com respectively.
World Religious Travel Association (WRTA):
WRTA is the leading global network for the $18 billion faith tourism industry. WRTA's primary purpose is to guide, enrich, and expand religious travel and hospitality around the globe via the trade, consumer, and media. Its membership is comprised of accommodations, attractions, tour operators, travel agents, tourism offices, transportation services, media and other key players in the tourism industry.
# # #
"Our theme serves as an invitation to tap into the flourishing religious travel and hospitality industry," said WRTA president, Kevin J. Wright. "We all know this is a very trying time for many companies. However, as faith tourism provides new market and revenue possibilities, the World Religious Travel Expo provides organizations with a renewed opportunity to experience their best year yet."
Faith-based travel and hospitality has become an important new market segment for many tour operators, travel agents, destinations and suppliers in the industry. In the past year alone, the religious market has taken on even greater significance, due to its recession-proof and groups-dominated attributes. An estimated 75% of faith-based travelers prefer to travel in group settings while 80% would like to repeat their religious travel experience. Challenging times only serve to bring people of faith together in greater numbers for travel or convention purposes; providing a much needed "stimulus" to the industry.
WRTA recently opened registrations for the Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2009, which will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to draw tourism organizations and travel professionals from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association Annual Convention, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking, and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, contact the World Religious Travel Association at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or +1-859-219-3529 or by email headquarters@WRTAreligioustravel.com. For more information about WRTA and the Expo, visit www.WRTAreligioustravel.com and www.WRTAexpo.com respectively.
World Religious Travel Association (WRTA):
WRTA is the leading global network for the $18 billion faith tourism industry. WRTA's primary purpose is to guide, enrich, and expand religious travel and hospitality around the globe via the trade, consumer, and media. Its membership is comprised of accommodations, attractions, tour operators, travel agents, tourism offices, transportation services, media and other key players in the tourism industry.
# # #
June 26, 2009
2010 to be "banner year" for pilgrimage celebrations
(GERMANY) The every-decade Passion Play takes place in 2010 in Oberammergau, Germany.
(SPAIN) Santiago de Compostela to celebrate its Holy Year in 2010. An estimated 10 million pilgrims and visitors are expected.
(ITALY)The Shroud of Turin, believed by many to be the burial cloth of Christ, is scheduled for the first time in 10 years to be displayed for the public in 2010.
If you are a travel provider for people of faith, be sure to integrate these itineraries into your portfolio. If you're a traveler, you might consider traveling to the Passion Play, Sanitago de Compostela, or to Italy to see the Shroud of Turin.
(SPAIN) Santiago de Compostela to celebrate its Holy Year in 2010. An estimated 10 million pilgrims and visitors are expected.
(ITALY)The Shroud of Turin, believed by many to be the burial cloth of Christ, is scheduled for the first time in 10 years to be displayed for the public in 2010.
If you are a travel provider for people of faith, be sure to integrate these itineraries into your portfolio. If you're a traveler, you might consider traveling to the Passion Play, Sanitago de Compostela, or to Italy to see the Shroud of Turin.
June 21, 2009
Thank God for religious conventions
Full story at: http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20090609/COLUMNISTS50/906090315/1046/BUSINESS/Thank+God+for+religious+conventions+in+city
Thank God for religious conventions. In an average year, the tourism forecast for Fort Collins would be rather bleak under these economic conditions.
We foresaw some of these changes and focused efforts and resources on securing convention business for this summer, primarily in the religious market. Being an odd-numbered year, we will see the return of Campus Crusade for Christ International, which will hold its summer training conference in Fort Collins, having met here for more than 40 years.
Even this longstanding event was in question recently, and a coordinated effort by Colorado State University, city, community and CVB interests worked to keep Campus Crusade coming back. This long-standing event is one of the major drivers of restaurant and retail spending, with participants staying here for two months and peaking at 7,000 attendees.
This summer also will mark the return of the Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses to Fort Collins and the Budweiser Events Center. We will host three weekends this year, and four in 2010, business that has been away from the city for a couple of years. Although the meeting is held at the Budweiser Event Center, organizers are loyal to their host, sending their hotel bookings to Fort Collins first.
It won't be a record year for tourism in this economic climate. But we feel the group business coming this summer will help close the gap.
Thank God for religious conventions.
Jim Clark is executive director of the Fort Collins Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Thank God for religious conventions. In an average year, the tourism forecast for Fort Collins would be rather bleak under these economic conditions.
We foresaw some of these changes and focused efforts and resources on securing convention business for this summer, primarily in the religious market. Being an odd-numbered year, we will see the return of Campus Crusade for Christ International, which will hold its summer training conference in Fort Collins, having met here for more than 40 years.
Even this longstanding event was in question recently, and a coordinated effort by Colorado State University, city, community and CVB interests worked to keep Campus Crusade coming back. This long-standing event is one of the major drivers of restaurant and retail spending, with participants staying here for two months and peaking at 7,000 attendees.
This summer also will mark the return of the Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses to Fort Collins and the Budweiser Events Center. We will host three weekends this year, and four in 2010, business that has been away from the city for a couple of years. Although the meeting is held at the Budweiser Event Center, organizers are loyal to their host, sending their hotel bookings to Fort Collins first.
It won't be a record year for tourism in this economic climate. But we feel the group business coming this summer will help close the gap.
Thank God for religious conventions.
Jim Clark is executive director of the Fort Collins Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Faithful flock to Springfield
Full story at http://www.news-leader.com/article/20090606/LIFE07/906060360/Faithful+flock+to+city
Affordability and accessibility are among the reasons religious organizations decide to hold conferences in Springfield. "The religious market segment is our second largest," a CVB official said.
Linda Leicht
News-Leader
There are about 2,000 more people in Springfield this weekend, and another 2,200 are expected in a few weeks.
Those visitors represent a market that brings plenty of group events to the city -- religion.
"The religious market segment is our second-largest," behind sporting events, says June Lammers, sales manager with the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.
This month alone, the Missouri conference of the United Methodist Church is holding a four-day event over this weekend, and the American Baptist Association will have its national assembly here June 23-25.
The reasons for picking Springfield are varied, but two things are at the top of most lists -- affordability and accessibility, says Lammers.
Number of denominations
The United Methodists have been coming to Springfield since 2006 and are booked at the Exposition Center in Springfield through 2014.
The American Baptists are here for the first time this year, beating out Wichita, Kan., and Birmingham and Mobile, Ala.
The Missouri Baptist Convention and the Missionary Baptist State Convention have been here in the past, and the United Pentecostal Church Women's Ministries will be here next year.
Lammers hopes to bring the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Youth Convention and some Church of God groups.
Fresh Grounded Faith, a nationally held women's conference organized by Springfield resident Jennifer Rothschild, attracted more than 1,000 people last year at High Street Baptist Church. An even larger group will meeting here in November at Second Baptist Church.
Topping the list
Sherry Habben, director of connectional ministries with the United Methodists, says Springfield meets all five of the church's criteria: large enough space for the meetings, hotel space for attendees, plenty of convenient parking for the mostly drive-in attendance, dining facilities and affordability.
But another criteria puts the city over the top, she said -- hospitality.
"We have been quite pleased," she says. "The (University Plaza) hotel staff has been wonderful in working with us."
Eddie Sutton, director of meeting arrangements for the American Baptists, says Springfield has been on top of the group's list since 2000, when Lammers first proposed the city for their 2003 meeting. But delays in construction of the Expo Center meant a switch to Wichita that year.
"June never quit working on it," he says. "She kept pushing for Springfield."
It turned out to be a good choice. Within three hours of opening reservation at University Plaza for the meeting, the hotel was sold out, Sutton says. He is now setting up rooms at five hotels in the city.
Lammers says that when the members voted on Springfield, many of the people told her they were excited to visit Bass Pro Shops, Fantastic Caverns and Branson.
"Their attendance has just exploded having their convention in this area," she says. "Our location is a big part of the reason for that."
Fresh Grounded Faith meetings are held around the country each year, but it is less about accommodations than it is about attitude that brings the conference to a city, says organizer Theresa Wiggins.
The conference does not focus on one denomination or even on church, she says. "It is a community outreach."
To qualify, a community must demonstrate a willingness on the part of many churches and denominations to work together to make it happen.
"We really want the community to be unified," Wiggins says.
"Although it may be held at a church, it is a coming together of women in harmony. It is bigger than the church."
Springfield has demonstrated that it has that cooperation. Last year, 11,398 women from 11 states worked on the event and attended, representing 188 churches from 16 denominations. Wiggins expects even more involvement this year.
"It was interesting ... how many people responded that they want their church involved..." she said.
"People can feel safe"
Lammers attends trade shows for two religious planning organizations, the Religious Conference Management Association and Rejuvenate. There, she is able to learn about the needs of the groups and promote Springfield.
Besides the top two, affordability and accessibility, Lammers finds that Springfield's "friendly atmosphere" and low crime rate are major issues for many groups. "People can feel safe here," she says.
The need for more hotel rooms close to the Expo Center and more access to affordable air service are among the few drawbacks to the city, she adds.
Money is a top consideration, especially in today's economic environment, Lammers and event organizers agree.
"In these times, people are looking for things to do," says Wiggins. "If it's an affordable event, they'll go."
The struggling economy has not reduced the number of people attending religious events and conferences, Lammers says.
"What we find with the religious market ... is that in times when the world is in turmoil, we see an increase in attendance."
Additional Facts
"June never quit working on it. She kept pushing for Springfield."
-- Eddie Sutton, director of meeting arrangements for the American Baptists
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Affordability and accessibility are among the reasons religious organizations decide to hold conferences in Springfield. "The religious market segment is our second largest," a CVB official said.
Linda Leicht
News-Leader
There are about 2,000 more people in Springfield this weekend, and another 2,200 are expected in a few weeks.
Those visitors represent a market that brings plenty of group events to the city -- religion.
"The religious market segment is our second-largest," behind sporting events, says June Lammers, sales manager with the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.
This month alone, the Missouri conference of the United Methodist Church is holding a four-day event over this weekend, and the American Baptist Association will have its national assembly here June 23-25.
The reasons for picking Springfield are varied, but two things are at the top of most lists -- affordability and accessibility, says Lammers.
Number of denominations
The United Methodists have been coming to Springfield since 2006 and are booked at the Exposition Center in Springfield through 2014.
The American Baptists are here for the first time this year, beating out Wichita, Kan., and Birmingham and Mobile, Ala.
The Missouri Baptist Convention and the Missionary Baptist State Convention have been here in the past, and the United Pentecostal Church Women's Ministries will be here next year.
Lammers hopes to bring the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Youth Convention and some Church of God groups.
Fresh Grounded Faith, a nationally held women's conference organized by Springfield resident Jennifer Rothschild, attracted more than 1,000 people last year at High Street Baptist Church. An even larger group will meeting here in November at Second Baptist Church.
Topping the list
Sherry Habben, director of connectional ministries with the United Methodists, says Springfield meets all five of the church's criteria: large enough space for the meetings, hotel space for attendees, plenty of convenient parking for the mostly drive-in attendance, dining facilities and affordability.
But another criteria puts the city over the top, she said -- hospitality.
"We have been quite pleased," she says. "The (University Plaza) hotel staff has been wonderful in working with us."
Eddie Sutton, director of meeting arrangements for the American Baptists, says Springfield has been on top of the group's list since 2000, when Lammers first proposed the city for their 2003 meeting. But delays in construction of the Expo Center meant a switch to Wichita that year.
"June never quit working on it," he says. "She kept pushing for Springfield."
It turned out to be a good choice. Within three hours of opening reservation at University Plaza for the meeting, the hotel was sold out, Sutton says. He is now setting up rooms at five hotels in the city.
Lammers says that when the members voted on Springfield, many of the people told her they were excited to visit Bass Pro Shops, Fantastic Caverns and Branson.
"Their attendance has just exploded having their convention in this area," she says. "Our location is a big part of the reason for that."
Fresh Grounded Faith meetings are held around the country each year, but it is less about accommodations than it is about attitude that brings the conference to a city, says organizer Theresa Wiggins.
The conference does not focus on one denomination or even on church, she says. "It is a community outreach."
To qualify, a community must demonstrate a willingness on the part of many churches and denominations to work together to make it happen.
"We really want the community to be unified," Wiggins says.
"Although it may be held at a church, it is a coming together of women in harmony. It is bigger than the church."
Springfield has demonstrated that it has that cooperation. Last year, 11,398 women from 11 states worked on the event and attended, representing 188 churches from 16 denominations. Wiggins expects even more involvement this year.
"It was interesting ... how many people responded that they want their church involved..." she said.
"People can feel safe"
Lammers attends trade shows for two religious planning organizations, the Religious Conference Management Association and Rejuvenate. There, she is able to learn about the needs of the groups and promote Springfield.
Besides the top two, affordability and accessibility, Lammers finds that Springfield's "friendly atmosphere" and low crime rate are major issues for many groups. "People can feel safe here," she says.
The need for more hotel rooms close to the Expo Center and more access to affordable air service are among the few drawbacks to the city, she adds.
Money is a top consideration, especially in today's economic environment, Lammers and event organizers agree.
"In these times, people are looking for things to do," says Wiggins. "If it's an affordable event, they'll go."
The struggling economy has not reduced the number of people attending religious events and conferences, Lammers says.
"What we find with the religious market ... is that in times when the world is in turmoil, we see an increase in attendance."
Additional Facts
"June never quit working on it. She kept pushing for Springfield."
-- Eddie Sutton, director of meeting arrangements for the American Baptists
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA) states religious tourism important
Full story at: http://www.newtimesonline.com/content/view/19900/48/
— “Tour operators should give religious tourism a serious thought. All the churches — the Presbyterian Church for example — have interesting historic sites that can be included in their itineraries. It will help inculcate good morals among travelers.” Rev. G. O. Kwapong, Victory Presbyterian Church, Adenta.
— “Tour operators should give religious tourism a serious thought. All the churches — the Presbyterian Church for example — have interesting historic sites that can be included in their itineraries. It will help inculcate good morals among travelers.” Rev. G. O. Kwapong, Victory Presbyterian Church, Adenta.
$333m Saudi hotel projects set to meet pilgrim demand
Click here for full story.
Tourism chiefs in Saudi Arabia say they have invested $333m in new hotel projects in a bid to take advantage in a boom in religious tourism.
The Elaf Group, a subsidiary of Saudi Economic and Development Company (SEDCO) which serves the Saudi Arabian travel, tourism and hotel industries, has announced an expansion in its hotel offering with five hotels projects in three holy cities.
The move has been driven by a significant surge in religious tourism, which according to recent reports has achieved a 30 percent growth in the first quarter of 2009.
Elaf has particularly prepared for the new Umrah season that started in February, noting a considerable growth trend as around 3.5 million pilgrims are expected to visit the kingdom in the current Umrah season.
Religious tourism in Saudi generates around $7 billion annually according to recent reports, while the government has allocated a total of $38 billion in tourism infrastructure and transport systems, including a high-speed railway system that will link Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah - three key travel destinations in the country.
Tourism chiefs in Saudi Arabia say they have invested $333m in new hotel projects in a bid to take advantage in a boom in religious tourism.
The Elaf Group, a subsidiary of Saudi Economic and Development Company (SEDCO) which serves the Saudi Arabian travel, tourism and hotel industries, has announced an expansion in its hotel offering with five hotels projects in three holy cities.
The move has been driven by a significant surge in religious tourism, which according to recent reports has achieved a 30 percent growth in the first quarter of 2009.
Elaf has particularly prepared for the new Umrah season that started in February, noting a considerable growth trend as around 3.5 million pilgrims are expected to visit the kingdom in the current Umrah season.
Religious tourism in Saudi generates around $7 billion annually according to recent reports, while the government has allocated a total of $38 billion in tourism infrastructure and transport systems, including a high-speed railway system that will link Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah - three key travel destinations in the country.
Franciscan University Summer Conferences contributing to religious tourism
Full story at http://www.wtov9.com/news/19738850/detail.html
Franciscan's executive director of Christian outreach is also on the board of Steubenville's Convention and Visitors' Bureau.
He said that, while national and local tourism is on the decline due to the recession, religious tourism is not taking a hit.
Mark Nehrbas said the university expects more than 10,000 people to attend, and food and other supplemental services are needed for them.
"We're happy at Franciscan University of Steubenville to make a contribution to local tourism industry as well," Nehrbas said.
The university hosts 19 youth conferences at regional centers throughout the country. The conferences are expected to introduce 38,000 teens nationwide to Franciscan University.
Franciscan's executive director of Christian outreach is also on the board of Steubenville's Convention and Visitors' Bureau.
He said that, while national and local tourism is on the decline due to the recession, religious tourism is not taking a hit.
Mark Nehrbas said the university expects more than 10,000 people to attend, and food and other supplemental services are needed for them.
"We're happy at Franciscan University of Steubenville to make a contribution to local tourism industry as well," Nehrbas said.
The university hosts 19 youth conferences at regional centers throughout the country. The conferences are expected to introduce 38,000 teens nationwide to Franciscan University.
Saudi's religious tourism posts 30% growth
Full story at:
http://hoteliermiddleeast.com/article-4707-saudis_religious_tourism_notes_30_growth/
The Elaf Group of Companies has launched a major expansion initiative in the Saudi hotel sector, driven by a significant surge in religious tourism.
According to recent reports, religious tourism has marked a 30% growth in the first quarter of 2009.
Elaf prepared for the new Umrah season that started in February 2009, noting a considerable growth trend as around 3.5 million pilgrims are expected to visit the Kingdom in the current Umrah season.
Company deputy CEO Tarek Nabulsi, said global travel becoming more affordable and an abundance of deals had aided the boom of the sector.
“Elaf intends to cater to the new requirements of the burgeoning religious tourism sector by expanding our portfolio of hotel facilities in the key cities of Jeddah, Makka and Madinah,” Nabulsi said.
http://hoteliermiddleeast.com/article-4707-saudis_religious_tourism_notes_30_growth/
The Elaf Group of Companies has launched a major expansion initiative in the Saudi hotel sector, driven by a significant surge in religious tourism.
According to recent reports, religious tourism has marked a 30% growth in the first quarter of 2009.
Elaf prepared for the new Umrah season that started in February 2009, noting a considerable growth trend as around 3.5 million pilgrims are expected to visit the Kingdom in the current Umrah season.
Company deputy CEO Tarek Nabulsi, said global travel becoming more affordable and an abundance of deals had aided the boom of the sector.
“Elaf intends to cater to the new requirements of the burgeoning religious tourism sector by expanding our portfolio of hotel facilities in the key cities of Jeddah, Makka and Madinah,” Nabulsi said.
June 18, 2009
The Top 10 Health Tips for International Travel
Passport Health http://www.passporthealthusa.com
DENVER -- Michelle Reesman, RN, executive director of Passport Health Colorado, says far too many international travelers, from business travelers to the more adventurous types, leave home without taking the basic steps she suggests below. "People need to put the same kind of preparation into their health as they do into their destination choice, passport acquisition or flight plans," Reesman advises.
1. Get advice from a travel health professional. Four to six weeks before departure, consult a travel medicine specialist for the most up-to-date immunization, malaria recommendations and consultation. They can answer your questions and prepare you for a safe and healthy trip. It's important to get your immunizations early, as some of the vaccines take time to effectively protect you.
2. Protect yourself from disease-bearing insects. Wear protective clothing and use products containing 20 percent to 30 percent DEET, the insect repellant permethrin and bed nets.
3. Never go barefoot, even on the beach.
4. Make sure your water is purified. Do not use tap water when brushing your teeth.
5. Consume only well-cooked food. Fruits and veggies? Peel it, boil it or forget it!
6. Pre-fill your prescriptions, they may not be available at your destination. Take extra in case your trip is extended. In some countries counterfeit medications can be a problem. Carry medications in their original packaging and pack in your carry-on luggage.
7. Don't swim in rivers, lakes, ponds and streams. Well-chlorinated pools and salt water are usually considered safe.
8. Take a basic first aid kit. Include medications for pain relief, such as ibuprofen and Tylenol, topical preparations for minor skin wounds and infections, and medications for allergic reactions. Consider presumptive treatment (Imodium and an antibiotic) for traveler's diarrhea. Discuss the appropriate antibiotics for your destination with a travel health specialist.
9. Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of medical problems among tourists. Avoid riding motorcycles or wear a helmet and don't drink and drive. Wear a seatbelt and only travel during daylight hours.
10. Purchase travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation. Most medical insurance plans aren't accepted when you travel internationally.
Source: Passport Health Colorado
DENVER -- Michelle Reesman, RN, executive director of Passport Health Colorado, says far too many international travelers, from business travelers to the more adventurous types, leave home without taking the basic steps she suggests below. "People need to put the same kind of preparation into their health as they do into their destination choice, passport acquisition or flight plans," Reesman advises.
1. Get advice from a travel health professional. Four to six weeks before departure, consult a travel medicine specialist for the most up-to-date immunization, malaria recommendations and consultation. They can answer your questions and prepare you for a safe and healthy trip. It's important to get your immunizations early, as some of the vaccines take time to effectively protect you.
2. Protect yourself from disease-bearing insects. Wear protective clothing and use products containing 20 percent to 30 percent DEET, the insect repellant permethrin and bed nets.
3. Never go barefoot, even on the beach.
4. Make sure your water is purified. Do not use tap water when brushing your teeth.
5. Consume only well-cooked food. Fruits and veggies? Peel it, boil it or forget it!
6. Pre-fill your prescriptions, they may not be available at your destination. Take extra in case your trip is extended. In some countries counterfeit medications can be a problem. Carry medications in their original packaging and pack in your carry-on luggage.
7. Don't swim in rivers, lakes, ponds and streams. Well-chlorinated pools and salt water are usually considered safe.
8. Take a basic first aid kit. Include medications for pain relief, such as ibuprofen and Tylenol, topical preparations for minor skin wounds and infections, and medications for allergic reactions. Consider presumptive treatment (Imodium and an antibiotic) for traveler's diarrhea. Discuss the appropriate antibiotics for your destination with a travel health specialist.
9. Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of medical problems among tourists. Avoid riding motorcycles or wear a helmet and don't drink and drive. Wear a seatbelt and only travel during daylight hours.
10. Purchase travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation. Most medical insurance plans aren't accepted when you travel internationally.
Source: Passport Health Colorado
June 10, 2009
Krakow Catholic university debuts religious tourism faculty
Study religious tourism in Krakow!
09.06.2009
Resource: http://www.polskieradio.pl/thenews/national/artykul109840_study_religious_tourism_in_krakow_.html
The Catholic university in Krakow opens a religious tourism faculty in October.
Krakow, Czestochowa and the whole south region of Lesser Poland is frequently visited by pilgrims. The Pontifical Academy of Theology in Krakow decided to meet expectations of those who travel to Poland on religious purposes and opened religious tourism faculty.
The first students will start fathoming mysteries of faith and geography in October.
In Krakow one can study Tourism and Recreation at several universities: the Jagiellonian University, Krakow University of Economics, Agricultural University of Krakow and Academy of Physical Education. In October the faculty will also be formed at the AGH University of Science and Technology.
09.06.2009
Resource: http://www.polskieradio.pl/thenews/national/artykul109840_study_religious_tourism_in_krakow_.html
The Catholic university in Krakow opens a religious tourism faculty in October.
Krakow, Czestochowa and the whole south region of Lesser Poland is frequently visited by pilgrims. The Pontifical Academy of Theology in Krakow decided to meet expectations of those who travel to Poland on religious purposes and opened religious tourism faculty.
The first students will start fathoming mysteries of faith and geography in October.
In Krakow one can study Tourism and Recreation at several universities: the Jagiellonian University, Krakow University of Economics, Agricultural University of Krakow and Academy of Physical Education. In October the faculty will also be formed at the AGH University of Science and Technology.
June 8, 2009
Eastern Africa pilgrimages
MARTYR’S DAY ATTRACTS CHRISTIAN PILGRIMS AGAIN
In spite of the present economic downturn plenty of foreign pilgrims came once again to Uganda to celebrate the annual remembrance at Namugongo, a short way outside Kampala en route to Jinja. The region topped the ‘foreign’ visitors with pilgrims from Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Burundi being registered, but from further away still came groups from Nigeria, Italy, the United States and Canada. The memorial at Namugongo was consecrated by none other than Pope Paul VI in the late 60’s and later also visited by Pope John Paul II. Hundreds of thousands of Christians meet at Namugongo every year to remember the 23 martyrs, all of whom were since elevated to sainthood in the Catholic Church.
Faithful from across Eastern Africa had walked at times for days and weeks to reach the venue of the celebrations in a classic pilgrimage by foot, while others arrived in buses and car convoys from the entire region. Religious ‘tourism’ remains largely underestimated but in fact makes significant contributions to the sector, as the annual Martyr’s Day statistics regularly show.
Read the full story at
http://www.eturbonews.com/9619/wolfgang-s-east-africa-report
In spite of the present economic downturn plenty of foreign pilgrims came once again to Uganda to celebrate the annual remembrance at Namugongo, a short way outside Kampala en route to Jinja. The region topped the ‘foreign’ visitors with pilgrims from Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Burundi being registered, but from further away still came groups from Nigeria, Italy, the United States and Canada. The memorial at Namugongo was consecrated by none other than Pope Paul VI in the late 60’s and later also visited by Pope John Paul II. Hundreds of thousands of Christians meet at Namugongo every year to remember the 23 martyrs, all of whom were since elevated to sainthood in the Catholic Church.
Faithful from across Eastern Africa had walked at times for days and weeks to reach the venue of the celebrations in a classic pilgrimage by foot, while others arrived in buses and car convoys from the entire region. Religious ‘tourism’ remains largely underestimated but in fact makes significant contributions to the sector, as the annual Martyr’s Day statistics regularly show.
Read the full story at
http://www.eturbonews.com/9619/wolfgang-s-east-africa-report
Millions opt for religious tourism
Millions opt for religious tourism
6/6/2009
While there are no official statistics to confirm it, recent estimations have calculated that religious tourism in Portugal attracts several million tourists every year, generating around €700 million in revenue and representing 10 percent of the overall tourism in Portugal.
The lack of official figures is explained by the fact that ‘religious tourism’ (visits to places of religious interest) is not categorized as such, but is in fact classified as ‘cultural tourism’.
This has been criticized by researchers and tour operators who believe Portugal’s current Strategic Tourism Plan should be reformed to include an 11th tourism category, Religious Tourism.
Entities such as the Portuguese Tourist Board and the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) have also complained about the lack of statistics relating purely to this sector in Portugal. Kevin Wright, head of the WRTA, said “there is no specific data relating to Portugal in this sector with the exception of those relating solely to visitors to the Fatima Sanctuary”.
On a global scale, every year between 300 and 330 million people embark on a religion-based trip, which overall generates revenue of between 15 and 18 billion euros.
Portugal is believed to generate around two percent of that traffic. Of the seven million people who visit Portugal for religious purposes, around five million of those head for Fátima.
Internationally, Lourdes, in France, is one of the main religious destinations, with six million visitors every year. However the record goes to Kumbha Mela (India), whose celebrations take place every 12 years and saw 75 million people gather in 2001
To read the full article visit http://www.the-news.net/cgi-bin/google.pl?id=1013-12
6/6/2009
While there are no official statistics to confirm it, recent estimations have calculated that religious tourism in Portugal attracts several million tourists every year, generating around €700 million in revenue and representing 10 percent of the overall tourism in Portugal.
The lack of official figures is explained by the fact that ‘religious tourism’ (visits to places of religious interest) is not categorized as such, but is in fact classified as ‘cultural tourism’.
This has been criticized by researchers and tour operators who believe Portugal’s current Strategic Tourism Plan should be reformed to include an 11th tourism category, Religious Tourism.
Entities such as the Portuguese Tourist Board and the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) have also complained about the lack of statistics relating purely to this sector in Portugal. Kevin Wright, head of the WRTA, said “there is no specific data relating to Portugal in this sector with the exception of those relating solely to visitors to the Fatima Sanctuary”.
On a global scale, every year between 300 and 330 million people embark on a religion-based trip, which overall generates revenue of between 15 and 18 billion euros.
Portugal is believed to generate around two percent of that traffic. Of the seven million people who visit Portugal for religious purposes, around five million of those head for Fátima.
Internationally, Lourdes, in France, is one of the main religious destinations, with six million visitors every year. However the record goes to Kumbha Mela (India), whose celebrations take place every 12 years and saw 75 million people gather in 2001
To read the full article visit http://www.the-news.net/cgi-bin/google.pl?id=1013-12
June 3, 2009
Faithful events: Religious gatherings provide boost to Louisville convention, tourism industries
May 11, 2009
Faithful events: Religious gatherings provide boost to Louisville convention, tourism industriesBusiness First of Louisville - by Nicole Hendricks Correspondent
About 4,000 attendees came to meet and worship at a regional Women of Joy Ministries Convention in April. The four-day event was held at the Kentucky Exposition Center.Inspired to share their faith and attend meetings and conventions despite the slumping economy, attendees of religious conventions are making faith-based conventions good business for Louisville businesses.
For 2007, the Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau booked 21 religious-affiliated conventions that had $14.2 million in economic impact. And those numbers have grown as Louisville has expanded its capacity to house larger numbers of conventioneers and convention bureau staff have honed efforts to attract these groups.
For 2008, the bureau booked 28 religious conventions that generated an estimated $20.8 million for the local economy, and the bureau booked 28 religious conferences for 2009. Those conventions are expected to have an estimated economic impact of $32.1 million.
Jim Wood, president and CEO of the Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau, said “we’ll probably pick up a few more small ones before the year is out.”
Wood said since conventions tend to be booked as far as five years in advance, Louisville already is set to host 31 religious conventions between 2010 to 2013.
That growth is in sharp contrast to other conventions, which are expected to see 5 percent to 40 percent fewer attendees this year due to the economy, Wood said.
“As a city, we know what our niche is, and we pursue that type of business,” he said. “We’ve gotten good at marketing to the religious convention business.”
Focus on faith
The religious segment is so strong, the Galt House hotel has a staff member who is dedicated to work with religious-oriented groups.
Leah Hutchinson, national sales manager for religious markets at the downtown Galt House, said she works with planners of large and small religious conventions.
About 80 percent of The Galt House’s business comes from conventions, and a high percentage of that is the religious market, she said. “In this economic climate, the religious market is a very viable market, but the youth ministry area is especially hot.”
Dedicated to attend
Hutchinson said she expects the religious segment to continue to be strong because leaders and members of religious groups tend to be a bit more dedicated than a typical conventioneer.
“They may not know how they have the means to do so, but if they feel the conviction, they’ll go,” she said. “I think they are driven by a higher power to make the decision to attend conventions. So I expect to see this market continuing to thrive.”
Paul Kiley, director of sales and marketing for the Louisville Marriott Downtown, said the nature of religious conventions makes it worthwhile to pursue them. Most, he said, last longer than typical conventions, therefore bringing larger revenues to the hotel and businesses around it.
Typically, regional religious conventions last three or four days, and national ones can last up to a week, compared with corporate conventions that typically last two or three days, he said. “The larger the meeting the longer the time frame.”
Lower costs, more amenities
Kiley noted that while all convention planners want to keep costs down, religious conventions differ from others in that the nonprofit groups typical to the industry often do not have big budgets.
Kiley, who said conventions comprise 68 percent of the hotel’s business, said religious conventioneers often bring families, meaning they need activities outside the typical meetings.
The hotel promotes amenities such as a fitness center and swimming pool and plans entertainment for children and spouses to meeting planners who choose locations and block rooms, Kiley said.
“There is a genuine hospitality that the city lends to religious groups, and the proximity to local support from other religious institutions helps,” he said.
Hutchinson said controlling costs is something she also keeps in mind when working with planners of religious conventions. Louisville is fortunate, she said, because it is accessible by three major intestates that make it within a half day’s drive of many major cities, and “being a Southwest Airlines gate city is also a draw because Southwest fares are so reasonable.”
The hotel also offers incentives such as discounted tickets to area attractions to sell rooms. “Faith-based and other nonprofit convention planners have unique needs in terms of budget constraints, so we try to partner with the (bureau), other local hotels and area attractions to provide incentives that would help a ‘fence sitter’ make the decision to bring their convention to Louisville,” she said
To read the rest of the article visit http://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/business_travel/story/biz/2193.html
Faithful events: Religious gatherings provide boost to Louisville convention, tourism industriesBusiness First of Louisville - by Nicole Hendricks Correspondent
About 4,000 attendees came to meet and worship at a regional Women of Joy Ministries Convention in April. The four-day event was held at the Kentucky Exposition Center.Inspired to share their faith and attend meetings and conventions despite the slumping economy, attendees of religious conventions are making faith-based conventions good business for Louisville businesses.
For 2007, the Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau booked 21 religious-affiliated conventions that had $14.2 million in economic impact. And those numbers have grown as Louisville has expanded its capacity to house larger numbers of conventioneers and convention bureau staff have honed efforts to attract these groups.
For 2008, the bureau booked 28 religious conventions that generated an estimated $20.8 million for the local economy, and the bureau booked 28 religious conferences for 2009. Those conventions are expected to have an estimated economic impact of $32.1 million.
Jim Wood, president and CEO of the Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau, said “we’ll probably pick up a few more small ones before the year is out.”
Wood said since conventions tend to be booked as far as five years in advance, Louisville already is set to host 31 religious conventions between 2010 to 2013.
That growth is in sharp contrast to other conventions, which are expected to see 5 percent to 40 percent fewer attendees this year due to the economy, Wood said.
“As a city, we know what our niche is, and we pursue that type of business,” he said. “We’ve gotten good at marketing to the religious convention business.”
Focus on faith
The religious segment is so strong, the Galt House hotel has a staff member who is dedicated to work with religious-oriented groups.
Leah Hutchinson, national sales manager for religious markets at the downtown Galt House, said she works with planners of large and small religious conventions.
About 80 percent of The Galt House’s business comes from conventions, and a high percentage of that is the religious market, she said. “In this economic climate, the religious market is a very viable market, but the youth ministry area is especially hot.”
Dedicated to attend
Hutchinson said she expects the religious segment to continue to be strong because leaders and members of religious groups tend to be a bit more dedicated than a typical conventioneer.
“They may not know how they have the means to do so, but if they feel the conviction, they’ll go,” she said. “I think they are driven by a higher power to make the decision to attend conventions. So I expect to see this market continuing to thrive.”
Paul Kiley, director of sales and marketing for the Louisville Marriott Downtown, said the nature of religious conventions makes it worthwhile to pursue them. Most, he said, last longer than typical conventions, therefore bringing larger revenues to the hotel and businesses around it.
Typically, regional religious conventions last three or four days, and national ones can last up to a week, compared with corporate conventions that typically last two or three days, he said. “The larger the meeting the longer the time frame.”
Lower costs, more amenities
Kiley noted that while all convention planners want to keep costs down, religious conventions differ from others in that the nonprofit groups typical to the industry often do not have big budgets.
Kiley, who said conventions comprise 68 percent of the hotel’s business, said religious conventioneers often bring families, meaning they need activities outside the typical meetings.
The hotel promotes amenities such as a fitness center and swimming pool and plans entertainment for children and spouses to meeting planners who choose locations and block rooms, Kiley said.
“There is a genuine hospitality that the city lends to religious groups, and the proximity to local support from other religious institutions helps,” he said.
Hutchinson said controlling costs is something she also keeps in mind when working with planners of religious conventions. Louisville is fortunate, she said, because it is accessible by three major intestates that make it within a half day’s drive of many major cities, and “being a Southwest Airlines gate city is also a draw because Southwest fares are so reasonable.”
The hotel also offers incentives such as discounted tickets to area attractions to sell rooms. “Faith-based and other nonprofit convention planners have unique needs in terms of budget constraints, so we try to partner with the (bureau), other local hotels and area attractions to provide incentives that would help a ‘fence sitter’ make the decision to bring their convention to Louisville,” she said
To read the rest of the article visit http://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/business_travel/story/biz/2193.html
New World Religious Travel Expo video released on YOU TUBE
WRTA just released its inspriational World Relgious Travel Expo video on YOU TUBE. It can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c25vbpwqQ1o
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