Sunday, June 30, 2013

Champions, but far from great

In the end, it was the Miami Heat, as most would have predicted, who celebrated a second successive championship after edging out the San Antonio Spurs 4-3 with a 95-88 victory in Game 7 of one of the most exciting finals in NBA history.

The sad fact, however, is that the Heat still have some way to go before they can become a truly great team.

No one would have dared bet against them at the start of the NBA playoffs. This was a team that boasted the triple threat of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. This was a team that compiled a magnificent 27-game winning streak during the regular season. This was a team that hated to lose.

But all that changed during the playoffs. After sweeping the Milwaukee Bucks in Round 1, the Heat struggled against an injury-ravaged Chicago Bulls side, one missing key players Derrick Rose, Luol Deng and Kirk Hinrich. Erik Spoelstra’s men won the series 4-1, but the air of invincibility surrounding them had somewhat diminished.

Then came the bruising encounter with the Indiana Pacers. James and Co were pushed to the limit by the underdogs and only a flawless Game 7 performance allowed the Heat to progress to their third straight Finals.

But that battle drained the Heat both physically and mentally. Worse, their opponents in the Finals, the Spurs, were one of the most complete, cohesive and consistent teams entering the playoffs.

Coached by the eccentric Gregg Popovich, the Spurs may not sell as many jerseys or generate as many Twitter followers as their more glamorous opponents, but they do win a lot of games. And it was nothing short of a team effort that got them to the Finals.

Point guard Tony Parker was his usual brilliant self leading up to the playoffs. His ability to score insane shots when it mattered gave his team vital points and the Memphis Grizzles, Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers all had no idea how to contain him.

But he met his match in James. Shackled by the best player in the world, Parker finished 3-of-12 from the field in Game 7 and 6-of-23 in Game 6.

And just when we thought the 37-year-old Tim Duncan was done, he finds the fountain of youth, one moment charging up court to support the attack, the next making crucial blocks at the opposite end. But his failure to convert a basket in the dying seconds of Game 7 cost his team.

Then there were the lesser-known players such as Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green.

Green set a new record for the number of three pointers scored during the Finals, claiming the honour from Ray Allen, whose only notable contribution was denying the Spurs the championship with a massive game-tying three-pointer at the end of regulation time in Game 6.

But he fizzled out and shot 1-for-5 on three-pointers and 1-for-7 overall in Game 6 and was nowhere to be seen in Game 7, costing his team valuable points.

Leonard was by far James’ toughest opponent in the playoffs and his rebounding abilities had many comparing him to the great Dennis Rodman, but without the craziness.

But his failure to convert crucial free throws in Game 6 gave the Miami Heat hope, a very dangerous weapon to have in the sporting world, and that was all they needed to force Game 7 and take the championships.

It didn’t help the Spurs’ cause that they had to contend with James who was at his brilliant best in every single game of the Finals, eventually joining Michael Jordan and Bill Russell as the only players in league history to win back-to-back Finals and regular-season MVP awards.

And he did this without receiving much help from his team-mates — except in Game 7.

Wade and Bosh had their moments, but were inconsistent throughout the series, which is not the return the Heat were expecting on their big-money investments. Even the bench did not perform to expectations. Shane Battier only came alive in Game 7 with pin-point accuracy from beyond the arc and Chris Andersen started the series well, but faded out after his mysterious omission from Games 4 and 5. Matt Miller was virtually non-existent.

While no one can doubt the Spurs’ hard work and determination, their failure to convert the big points when it mattered gifted the Heat the championship. And with age catching up on their big three, it looks like the boys from Texas may have to wait another few years before getting another chance to challenge for basketball’s biggest prize.

As for the Heat, they proved that with James on your side, anything is possible. But they have a long way to go before they can be mentioned in the same breath as Jordan’s Bulls or Russell’s Celtics.

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Canadian Pacific launches faster Toronto-Calgary intermodal service

Canadian Pacific today announced it has launched a faster intermodal rail service between Toronto and Calgary to better serve customers in this key corridor. The new service offering cuts 20 hours from previous schedules.

“Customers are taking advantage of CP’s faster transit times in major intermodal corridors, and given Calgary’s importance as a Canadian distribution hub, improving this service is the next logical step,” said Jane O’Hagan, CP’s executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “We are helping our customers become more competitive in their own markets and offering previously unavailable options to business not currently shipping with CP.”

O’Hagan added, “CP is focused on its commitment to faster, more reliable service for its customers. The improved schedule is made possible by pairing efficient train design at origin while leveraging a CP advantage; the shortest rail route between Toronto and Calgary.”

The 20-hour service improvement means the 3,400 kilometre distance from Toronto to Calgary will now take 64 hours.

Using similar practices last year, CP shortened schedules from Vancouver to Chicago and Vancouver to Toronto. Initiatives like these will continue to improve asset utilization while meeting customer demands for supply-chain improvements.


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Aston Villa confirm Luna landing from Sevilla

LONDON — Aston Villa’s early-summer flurry of recruitment continued yesterday (this morning, Singapore time) when the club confirmed the signing of the defender Antonio Luna from Sevilla.

The 22-year-old left-back, who has been capped at various youth levels for Spain, has put pen to paper on a three-year deal with Villa.

The news of Luna’s arrival comes two days after Villa announced they had sealed the capture of the Denmark striker Nicklas Helenius from Aalborg.

Last week they brought in another Denmark international, centre-back Jores Okore, and Holland Under-21 midfielder Leandro Bacuna. The the week before that, Villa confirmed they had agreed a deal to sign the Bulgaria midfielder Aleksandar Tonev.

Luna told the Villa website: “I’ve always believed that I could play in the Premier League and to have this opportunity with a club as historic and huge as Aston Villa and with a manager (Paul Lambert) who is building a squad of young players with great prospects is tremendously exciting for me.

“I really can’t wait to get started and to play my first game. I have a great expectation coming here.

“The manager explained to me that it is a young squad but also one with good experience and everyone is hungry, everybody wants to succeed here.”

He added: “Obviously, I have watched Premier League games and I am totally aware of the pace of the game and that the challenge is to constantly be at the maximum and top of your performance.

“There have been many good and great players from Spain who have come here and succeeded and I know I can adapt my game also.

“The quality of football in La Liga is also respected everywhere and this is why I believe I can do well in the Premier League.”

Luna came through the youth system at Sevilla and after playing for their B side made his debut for the first team in May 2010.

He joined Almeria for a loan stint during the 2010-11 campaign and last season spent a similar spell with Real Mallorca. Luna was also part of the Spain squad who reached the quarter-finals of the 2011 Under-20 World Cup. THE GUARDIAN

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Mizuno PAssion Mount Faber run postponed

SINGAPORE — The Mizuno PAssion Mount Faber Run this weekend has been postponed because of the haze, the event organisers and sponsors said today (June 21).

Some 2,500 runners had signed up for the 10km run, which was to flag off at 7.30am on Sunday. The event will now take place on Oct 13.

Event sponsors VGO Corporation said it will be contacting all the registered runners over the next two days to inform them of the postponement.

VGO also said that the decision was made “in the interest of our participants’ well-being”.

The Mizuno PAssion Mount Faber Run’s 10km route snakes through Mount Faber, with the start and finish in Bukit Merah View.

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LionsXII-Johor match to go ahead

SINGAPORE — The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) will refund fans who do not turn up at Jalan Besar Stadium for tonight’s Malaysian Super League (MSL) match between the LionsXII and Johor Darul Takzim.

In a statement last night, the FAS confirmed the match will proceed if the PSI reading is at or below 150. Stressing that “the health and well-being of our fans and stakeholders are of paramount importance”, the national football body also advised fans who are affected by the haze to stay at home. It also advised fans who do not turn up to keep their full and unused tickets for refund purposes.

With the haze hitting record PSI levels, there had been fears that the top-of-the-table clash between sides managed by Singapore’s favourite football sons V Sundramoorthy and Fandi Ahmad would be postponed. The LionsXII lead the 12-team MSL by four points over Johor with four rounds to go in the league season, and the match which will kick off at 7.45pm has been sold out for days.

The FAS’ stance mirrors its approach to S-League matches — Thursday’s StarHub League Cup semi-final matches were re-scheduled to September due to the haze.

Earlier yesterday, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) issued a statement giving its MSL matches the go-ahead, including the LionsXII-Johor tie. Among other things, the FAM said the match would proceed only if the two teams sign an undertaking to bear responsibility for “consequences that will arise”.

The FAS has urged fans to look out for updates on its website and the FAS and LionsXII Facebook pages.

PHILIP GOH and DAN GUEN CHIN

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BCD Travel acquires Travelocity Business from Travelocity

BCD Travel, a top provider of travel management services for businesses globally, today announced it has acquired Travelocity Business from its parent company, Travelocity.

Widely known as “TBiz,” the Texas-based TMC ranks among the top 10 travel agencies in North America and, in recent years, has been one of the corporate travel industry’s fastest-growing agencies.

The acquisition does not include products, services or customers of the consumer travel brand Travelocity.

Launched in 2003, TBiz has built a solid client portfolio, servicing major companies worldwide. BCD Travel plans to continue servicing TBiz clients under the TBiz brand. Clients will continue to receive the quality service and focus on travelers they experience today.

The TBiz team also brings their creative talents to BCD Travel, further paving the way for expanded innovation for clients.

“We’re a growth-oriented company and see this move as a smart, strategic acquisition,” said Mike Janssen, president of BCD Travel’s Americas region. “We see a fantastic cultural fit with TBiz. Their success comes from focusing on customer needs, enabling travelers and offering great solutions—in other words, they share our priorities and goals.

“We’re excited about the fresh ideas that we’ll be exchanging with TBiz team members,” Janssen said.

“Over the last 10 years, Travelocity Business has grown into a powerful force in corporate travel. We’ve built strong relationships with our clients, and I’m confident their interests—and the interests of our employees who transfer to BCD Travel—will be very well-served by the sale of TBiz,” said former Travelocity Business President Yannis Karmis , who will stay with Travelocity Global as president of Travelocity Partner Network.

Among other benefits, BCD Travel plans to offer TBiz clients access to its global network and expertise in global program consolidation, business analytics and consulting and meetings services through Advito and BCD M&I.


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Saturday, June 29, 2013

Alleged match-fixer to go on trial next month

SINGAPORE — Businessman Eric Ding is set to go on trial next month on three charges of corruption.

Ding, 31, is alleged to have supplied prostitutes to induce three Lebanese match officials to fix an Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup match on April 3 between Singapore’s Tampines Rovers and India’s East Bengal.

Ding is said to have refused to disclose the password to his laptop while in remand and is also accused of stealing an M&A Law Corporation receipt from an investigator at the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau, for which he was later charged with obstruction of justice and theft respectively.

However, these two charges have been stood down after an in-chambers meeting between his lawyers from Rajah & Tann and the deputy public prosecutors yesterday. According to the deputy public prosecutor, the charges could be revisited at a later date.

Ding, who was also a former football tipster for The New Paper, is now set for a trial that will begin on July 15 to contest three charges of corruption and faces a maximum sentence of five years in jail and S$100,000 on each count.

The three convicted Lebanese football referees, along with at least nine others, will stand as prosecution witnesses.

Ding is out on S$300,000 bail. AMIR YUSOF

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New appointment for Canadian Pacific

Canadian Pacific has revealed Robert Johnson has been hired as CP’s Vice-President U.S. Operations.

Johnson’s railroad career spans 32 years with BNSF where he held successively more responsible roles in operations, transportation, engineering, and service excellence. His most recent position at BNSF was General Manager, Northwest Division, overseeing day-to-day operations for that region.

“We welcome Robert to Canadian Pacific,” said Keith Creel, CP’s president and chief operating officer.  “His depth of experience significantly adds to our operation’s bench strength to help continue CP’s ongoing drive for efficiency, optimizing assets and improving service for our customers.”

Johnson takes over from SVP U.S. Operations Doug McFarlane, who has announced his retirement after 37 years with the railroad in both Canada and the United States.

McFarlane joined CP in 1976 and has held a number of positions within the company, including conductor and locomotive engineer. He later served in key executive roles in operations, transportation, marketing & sales and labor relations, and ultimately as SVP U.S. Operations. 

“On behalf of the entire CP family, I would like to thank Doug for his professionalism and many years of dedication and passionate leadership,” added Creel. “Doug leaves behind a strong legacy and positive example of accountability for people across the entire CP network.”


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Arsenal seal deal for Real’s Higuain

LONDON — Gonzalo Higuain has reached an agreement in principle with Arsenal over personal terms on a four-year contract, as his move from Real Madrid edges closer.

The Argentina striker is the marquee addition that Arsene Wenger wants this summer and the manager is ready to break the Arsenal transfer record to sign him.

The club’s billionaire shareholder, Alisher Usmanov, has also urged Wenger to keep splashing the cash with a move for Wayne Rooney.

There is a confidence at the club that Higuain is poised to join, ideally before Arsenal depart on July 11 for their commercial tour of Indonesia, Vietnam and Japan, and it appears that the final obstacle is the sign-off from Real’s new manager.

The Spanish club, who parted company with Jose Mourinho at the end of last season, have lined up a deal for Paris Saint-Germain’s Carlo Ancelotti and he is keen to be installed at the Bernabeu as soon as possible.

He could then be expected to sanction Higuain’s release. The player has come to feel surplus at Madrid and the club have already circulated his name to potential buyers.

But PSG’s search for a new manager, which has taken several twists, has not yet been resolved and the situation has had an effect on Ancelotti’s proposed move to Madrid.

The discussions between Arsenal and Higuain’s representatives have progressed in recent weeks and the player has indicated that he is happy with the contract on offer, which is worth around £130,000 (S$256,730) a week.

The 25-year-old stands to become Arsenal’s first £20 million-plus player. The club’s current record signing is Andrey Arshavin at £15 million.

The pending signing of Higuain — who has scored 117 goals for Real since his arrival from River Plate in 2006 — makes a move for Rooney less likely, but Usmanov said: “He is a great player and joining Arsenal would be great for Rooney and Arsenal, too.”

If Rooney does leave Manchester United this summer, Chelsea remain the favourites to sign him.

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Swimmers’ SEA Games qualification plans upset by haze

SINGAPORE — The haze has not only affected sports events in Singapore, but also national swimmers’ chances of qualifying for December’s South-east Asian Games in Myanmar.

The Singapore National Swimming Championship, originally scheduled to be held at the Singapore Sports School from June 25 to 30, has been tentatively postponed until further notice.

This will affect the preparations of top national swimmers like Zach Ong, Amanda Lim, Quah Ting Wen and Tao Li, with nominations for the SEA Games closing at the end of this month. Qualification for next month’s World Championship in Barcelona is also affected, unless swimming’s world body FINA grants an extension to its end-June deadline.

The championship’s organising committee Chairman Ang Peng Wee said: “Although the meet is important, more important are our athletes and people involved in the meet.”

Yesterday, the haze remained in the “hazardous” range after a three-hour Pollutant Standards Index reading of 401. If the situation improves, organisers say the swimming championship could proceed as originally scheduled. But national swimmers TODAY spoke to are concerned.

“It’s not good. If we taper too long, we lose our fitness,” said Ong, 22, who is aiming to qualify for the men’s 100m and 200m backstroke at this year’s SEA Games. “But it’s hard to train and maintain our fitness in this haze as many pools are closed, and we may have to train nearby overseas and come back when the meet is on again.”

Lim, who qualified for next month’s World Championship in the women’s 50m freestyle event, had planned to use the nationals to improve on her qualifying time of 26.03secs.

“We’re all making our own adjustments to cope with the haze, but postponements will definitely affect my preparations,” said Lim, who is aiming for a third consecutive 50m freestyle title at the SEA Games. About 250 swimmers are expected to compete in the swimming championship.

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Eurotunnel told to cut charges to improve access to Channel Tunnel

The European Commission has sent a formal request to France and the United Kingdom to comply with EU rules against excessive track access charges for passenger and freight trains in the Channel Tunnel.

The Commission has also asked them to ensure a fully independent regulator and to end an agreement which currently reserves capacity for certain train operators in a restrictive way.

The high track access charges get passed on to passengers in their ticket prices and rail freight companies complain that they cannot afford to send more freight through the Tunnel - it remains on the roads causing congestion and pollution.

European Commission vice president Siim Kallas said: “The Channel Tunnel is not being used to its full capacity because of these excessive charges.

“As a result, more freight is being carried on lorries instead of by rail, freight operators and their customers are being over-charged, and passenger are paying over-the-odds for their tickets.

“The current regime is also stifling growth in the rail sector.”

Excessive track access charges mean higher prices for rail passengers and rail freight companies when using the Tunnel.

It also discourages new railway operators from entering the market.

EU rules require track access charges to be set on the basis of direct/marginal costs – the cost directly incurred as a result of operating a train service.

As an exception for specific investment projects only, higher charges can be set on the basis of the long-term costs of such projects.

The current track access charges for use of the Channel Tunnel infrastructure do not appear to be based on direct costs or the long term investment costs of building the Tunnel, the EU said in a statement.


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Transaero Airlines inks content deal with Travelport

Travelport and Russian carrier Transaero Airlines have signed a new global full content agreement. The new multi-year deal secures access to Transaero Airlines fares, seat availability and schedules for Travelport-connected travel agencies worldwide.

Leisure carrier Transaero Airlines offers a wide range of tourist air services thanks to its fleet that consists of predominantly wide-bodied aircraft. The airline’s route network covers destinations all over the world.

“Being part of Travelport’s extensive network is an important part of our distribution strategy to ensure our flights are available to travel agents everywhere. We look forward to working closely with Travelport in launching new products and services for travel agents,” said Roman Vdovenko, Sales Director Transaero Airlines.

“Travelport’s global breadth, technology and merchandising capabilities will ensure we continue to have a very successful relationship for years to come.”Robin Ranken, Head of Airline Relationships, Travelport Europe, said:

“The new agreement with Transaero Airlines is excellent news for Travelport and our global travel agency customers. Securing full content delivers many benefits for travel agents, including access to the most competitive fares available.”


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Friday, June 28, 2013

M-League football matches to proceed despite haze

KUALA LUMPUR - M-League matches will proceed as scheduled despite the haze conditions, The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) said today.

Competitions committee chairman Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said they have received confirmation from the involved teams that all the matches scheduled for today (June 21) and tomorrow will go on as usual.

He said the Air Pollution Index (API) reading in most of the affected areas had improved (below 200) and as such the matches will be played as scheduled.

“We have decided to go ahead with all the M-League matches (Super and Premier League). The situation has improved and we expect it to get better as most of the matches are played at night,” Hamidin said after an emergency FAM meeting today.

The Super League matches to be played today include the Selangor vs ATM and Felda United vs T-Team matches as well as the east coast derby between Terengganu and Kelantan. Six Premier League matches are also scheduled for today.

The top-of-the-table clash between the Lions XII and Johor Darul Takzim is scheduled for tomorrow at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore. AGENCIES

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Federer has Nadal, Murray in his way at Wimbledon

LONDON - Defending champion Roger Federer may find Rafa Nadal and home favourite Andy Murray blocking his path to another Wimbledon final after being drawn in the same half as both big rivals today (June 21).

The third seeded Swiss could face Spaniard Nadal, seeded only fifth to reflect his current post-injury ranking, in the quarter-finals before a potential clash with last year’s finalist Murray in the semis.

World number one Novak Djokovic would be on course to face seventh seed Tomas Berdych in the quarter-finals but will avoid his three old rivals until the final.

Djokovic plays Florian Mayer in his opening match while Nadal, who lost in the second round last year, starts out against Belgian Steve Darcis.

Murray’s first round match is against Germany’s world number 95 Benjamin Becker. REUTERS

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Aeromexico serves La Paz - Los Angeles route

Aeromexico, Mexico’s global airline, today started to serve the Los Angeles – La Paz route with modern Embraer 190 aircraft equipped with 99 passenger seats.

With this route, the airline offers its first international connection from La Paz, in addition to its currently flights to Mexico City and Culiacan, continuing the latter to Guadalajara.

This flight allows passengers to take advantage of the summer season to enjoy La Paz, a diverse travel destination, where you can choose to visit the top-tier nightclubs, or try the best aquatic sports facilities in Mexico, and maybe discover several natural wonders that will take your breath away.

Aeromexico is committed to its customers, which is why continues to strengthen its connectivity in the State of Baja California Sur, flying to and from La Paz, Los Cabos and with its recent flight Loreto – Los Angeles. Furthermore, its code share agreement with Alaska Airlines, allows passengers to travel to and from points beyond Los Angeles to Seattle, Portland, Anchorage in the USA, and Vancouver, Canada.


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Ritz-Carlton set to open Bali hotel in 2014

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, Indonesia is set to open in 2014.

The luxury resort is owned by PT Oriental Indah Bali Hotel Company and designed by architects and designers, Burega Farnell.

It will feature 288 keys including 90 exceptional suites and 14 villas. The Ritz-Carlton, Bali will also debut 10 cliff top villas that offer ocean views.

The luxury resort will also include six restaurants and bars, which include a cliff-side restaurant integrated into a natural cave that doubles as a private dining room.

Other restaurants include a beach grill, an Indonesian restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, a pool bar and all-day dining. Within the resort grounds, there will be a Ritz-Carlton Spa; a water sports pavilion and other recreational facilities.

“Bali is a naturally beautiful destination that global travelers have consistently returned to. We are delighted to be creating an authentic Balinese resort in Sawagan which will offer breathtaking views and carefully curated experiences and recreational activities that speak to the aspirations of today’s Ritz-Carlton guest,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operations Officer, The Ritz-Carlton.

Bali is a dream wedding destination, and The Ritz-Carlton will provide ideal wedding venues, including a choice of two wedding chapels, a ballroom, three intimate function rooms and outdoor terraces to create memorable celebrations that will stay with a couple and their guests for a lifetime.

“Described as simply the world’s best island, Bali a resort destination that appeals to many seeking an escape from the world and we are proud to unveil a resort that will, once again, raise the bar for hospitality in the region and contribute to the growth of tourism in Indonesia,” added Humler.

The stunning island of Bali enjoys an enviable reputation as one of the world’s most luxurious resort destinations with its combination of sandy beaches, local Balinese artisan culture and relaxed ambiance.


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BRAND USA expands international network

Brand USA, the public-private partnership responsible for promoting the United States as a premier travel destination, appoints in-market representation firms in key markets – India, Australia, New Zealand, China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

“When we have fully established all international offices, Brand USA will have representation in the markets that generate 93 percent of inbound travel to the United States,” said Chris Thompson, President and CEO for Brand USA.  “We look forward to working even more closely with the travel industry and media partners around the world to attract rapidly increasing numbers of international travelers to the U.S.”

Brand USA has partnered with the following representation firms:

India
Sartha Global Marketing was named in-market representative firm for India. The organization was instrumental in Brand USA’s first and highly successful trade mission hosting 50 U.S. delegates in Mumbai and New Delhi. They also facilitated the first Brand USA pavilion at SATTE, the largest networking forum for the travel & tourism industry in South Asia.  Moving forward, the New Dehli based organization will work closely with in-market and U.S. partners to augment the destination profile and educate stakeholders. Additionally, they will work aggressively to increase arrivals to the USA, encourage repeat visits and escalate visitor spending through marketing, promotional and public relations efforts.

Australia/New Zealand
Gate 7, marketing and representation agency specializing in the promotion of travel and tourism, will represent Brand USA in Australia and New Zealand. The recipient of multiple travel industry awards, Gate 7’s appointment is the first time Brand USA has engaged representation in the Australian and New Zealand markets. Gate 7 will be responsible for the overall strategic framework, consumer segmentation and direct marketing outreach in Australia and New Zealand.  Additionally, the team will implement marketing initiatives, travel trade training and public relations outreach; oversee the cooperative marketing partnerships and liaison with the media buying and creative agencies.

China
China’s leading destination marketing company, AVIAREPS Marketing Garden Ltd. was named Brand USA’s in-market representative.  With offices in Beijing and Shanghai, the new Brand USA China team will be responsible for promoting tourism from China to the United States and for working hand-in-hand with key travel agent, airline, media, and brand partners throughout China, to promote the United States as a world-class destination. In conjunction with the opening of its two new offices in China, Brand USA will also be launching a new representative office in Hong Kong via ConnectWorldwide.

Hong Kong/Taiwan
Connectworldwide BrandStory to serve as the representative firm for Brand USA’s Hong Kong and Taiwan operations. BrandStory will be responsible for expanding Brand USA’s media network and travel trade outreach in these markets, as well as developing co-operative partnership programs with the trade and media to increase visitation to the United States.
Thompson added, “With the launch of our consumer campaign in additional markets later this year, and our enhanced representation around the world, we anticipate that more visitors will choose to discover America.”


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Miami Heat win 2nd straight NBA title

MIAMI — LeBron James had 37 points and 12 rebounds as the Miami Heat won their second straight championship with a 95-88 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 7 of the NBA Finals yesterday night (this morning Singapore time, June 21).

The Heat beat the Spurs 95-88 to close out the best-of-seven series 4-3 for their third overall NBA title.

Dwyane Wade added 23 points and 10 rebounds and Shane Battier scored 18 points on 6-for-8 shooting from 3-point range for Miami. James made 5 of 10 3s, all the while hounding Spurs star Tony Parker on defense to make the Heat the first back-to-back champs since the Lakers in 2009-10.

Tim Duncan had 24 points and 12 rebound for the Spurs, who were trying to become the first road team to win a finals Game 7 since Washington in 1978. Kawhi Leonard added 19 points and 16 rebounds.

Mario Chalmers scored 14 for Miami.

San Antonio lost for the first time in five finals appearances.

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Thursday, June 27, 2013

Coup at Kuoni as chief executive forced out

Directors at Kuoni Travel Holding have appointed group chief financial officer Peter Meier to the position of chief executive of the Kuoni Group with immediate effect, on an interim basis.

Following the decision of the board Peter Rothwell, group chief executive, will be leaving Kuoni after a handover at the end of June 2013.

A new group chief executive is expected to be appointed in the course of 2013.

Rothwell joined Kuoni at the beginning of 2009.

During the past four years, Kuoni has been successfully transformed into a leading, global, and broad-based travel service provider.

Peter Meier will take over this position as of tomorrow in addition to his role as chief financial officer.

The recruiting process for the new chief executive is underway and an appointment is expected to be announced in the course of 2013.


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United places order for Airbus A350-1000 aircraft

United has placed an order with Airbus for new A350-1000 aircraft. The agreement converts United’s existing order for 25 A350-900s into A350-1000s and adds 10 firm orders for A350-1000s, giving the airline a total order of 35 aircraft.

The increased seating capacity of the A350-1000 will enable United to replace older, less efficient aircraft currently serving long-range, high-demand markets. United expects delivery starting in 2018.

“We look forward to taking delivery of the A350-1000,” said Jeff Smisek, United’s chairman, president and CEO.

“This is a modern, fuel-efficient and advanced-technology aircraft that our customers and co-workers will enjoy flying. It will be a great addition to our fleet, and will allow us to meet demand on larger, long-haul markets in our world-leading network.”

The A350-1000 is the largest member of the A350 WXB family and uses advanced materials including composites, titanium and aluminum alloys combined with the latest engine technology to make it lighter and more fuel efficient.

The aircraft will consume approximately 20 percent less fuel per seat than the large widebody aircraft it will replace. It is powered by new-generation Rolls-Royce Trent engines. The cabin will offer an improved customer experience with more headroom, wider panoramic windows and more overhead storage space.

“Less than a week after the success of the A350 XWB’s first flight, we see that demand for the new aircraft continues to grow, especially for the larger -1000 model. Airbus is proud to have United Airlines on board the exciting A350 program in such a significant way,” said Fabrice Bregier, Airbus President and CEO.

The Airbus order supports United’s commitment to improve the overall efficiency of its fleet. On Tuesday, the airline announced an order for 10 Boeing 787-10 aircraft and conversion of 10 existing 787 orders to the -10 variant, making United’s total Dreamliner order book 65.

In July of last year, United announced a narrowbody order for 100 Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft and 50 Boeing 737-900ER aircraft. The airline is also modernizing its United Express fleet by adding seventy 76-seat Embraer aircraft that will be operated by regional partners.


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Lufthansa launches self-drop luggage facilities

Lufthansa is making baggage check-in even simpler. From now on, at Munich airport passengers can check their bags in themselves. New baggage drop-off machines with easy-to-follow instructions guide passengers through the few steps needed to check in their bags. Six new-generation baggage machines are already in operation at the southern end of Terminal 2, and a further 13 will be added at Munich by the end of November 2012. At Frankfurt, two baggage drop-off machines are also undergoing a test run. By the middle of next year, a total of 16 will be in routine operation at Germany’s largest airport. Since 2011, the new baggage machines have been tested by about 95,000 passengers. Passengers who request personal assistance or who would like to check in bulky items can, of course, still drop off their baggage at a check-in counter.

Boarding service for premium passengers on Lufthansa’s European flights
On European routes, Lufthansa passengers travelling in First and Business Class as well as HON Circle members, Senators and holders of a Star Alliance Gold Card can board their flight before all other passengers. The personalised Priority Boarding service, which is supervised by a staff member at the gate, allows these customer groups to board their aircraft immediately after families with children and passengers in need of assistance. Premium customers then have plenty of time to stow their hand baggage and take their seats. The new boarding service has already been tested on numerous routes and is offered on all European flights.


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Fatigue claims Nehwal

SINGAPORE — She arrived in Singapore knowing she was not in the best of form but wanting to give it her all. Yesterday at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, second-seed Saina Nehwal’s quest for the women’s singles title at the US$200,000 (S$255,000) Li-Ning Singapore Open came to a shuddering halt.

The 23-year-old from India surrendered to fatigue, losing her quarter-final match to Indonesia’s Lindaweni Fanetri 21-17, 13-21, 13-21 in a 58-minute encounter.

Said Nehwal: “I was tired during the game, playing continuously took a toll on my body and my movements were not fast. I didn’t have the stamina, my legs were too heavy and I didn’t move well on court.”

For Fanetri, victory was sweet and almost instantaneous revenge over her world No 4 opponent, whom she had lost to in a three-game tussle the opening round of the Indonesian Open earlier this month.

The 24-year-old from Jakarta was prepared to go the distance if it meant getting through to challenge for the title. “I lost to Saina in the Indonesian Open because it was a long play. I made more unforced errors than her,” said Fanetri, recalling the match, which included a long second game won by Nehwal 29-27. “This time, I was prepared to be tired and make sure I wouldn’t make as many errors.”

Fanetri will next meet fourth seed Wang Yihan of China, who brushed aside compatriot and 2011 All-England champion Wang Shixian 21-18, 21-15.

Today’s other semi-final will see top seed Li Xuerui taking on fellow Chinese Sun Yu, who came through the qualifiers. FELICIA QUICK

Selected quarter-final results:

Men’s singles

Nguyen Tien Minh (VIE) bt Marc Zwiebler (GER) 23-21, 11-8 rtd, Tommy Sugiarto (INA) bt Rajiv Ouseph (ENG) 21-19, 21-18, Takuma Ueda (JPN) bt Kento Momota (JPN) 12-14, 21-19, Boonsak Ponsana (THA) bt Chong Wei Feng (MAS) 21-10, 21-19

Men’s doubles

Ko Sung Hyun/Lee Yong Dae (KOR) bt Maneepong Jongjit/Nipitphon Puangpuapech (THA) 21-9, 21-16, Cai Yun/Fu Haifeng (CHN) bt Takeshi Kamura/Keigo Sonoda (JPN) 24-22, 21-14, Mohammad Ahsan/Hendra Setiawan (INA) bt Hiroyuki Endo/Kenichi Hayakawa (JPN) 21-15, 23-21, Shin Baek Choel/Yoo Yeon Seong (KOR) bt Hiroyuki Saeki/Ryota Taohata (JPN) 21-14, 21-12

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Villas-Boas: Bale’s not going anywhere

LONDON — Andre Villas-Boas has insisted that Gareth Bale will not be leaving White Hart Lane this summer despite Real Madrid’s very public pursuit of the coveted Tottenham forward.

Real have not hidden their desire to sign Bale, with their club ambassador Zinedine Zidane making a number of flattering comments about the Welshman, who scored 31 goals for club and country last season.

Yet Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy pledged not to let go of the north London club’s leading performers this summer, and Villas-Boas sees no reason why Levy will go back on his word.

“We have the pledge of the chairman that Bale is not going to leave the club,” the Tottenham manager is quoted as saying in the Madrid-based newspaper Marca.

Tottenham are reportedly trying to tie the player to a lucrative new £130,000 (S$256,700) a week contract and have promised to allow him to leave next summer should the club once again fail to finish in the top four in the Premier League.

Real’s partnership with Tottenham — forged last year following the sale of Luka Modric to the nine-time European champions — has not stopped Zidane from flirting with the idea of Bale moving to the Bernabeu this summer.

Zidane said in May that Bale, who recently returned from holidaying in the United States, would fit in well at the Spanish club. Last weekend he intimated that Bale could speed up a transfer if he asked to leave Tottenham.

Franco Baldini’s appointment as director of football has raised hopes that Spurs will start moving to bring in new recruits soon, but it is understood that the club are unlikely to announce any signings in the next couple of weeks.

Villas-Boas will be hoping that Baldini can land at least one big-name player after missing out on Joao Moutinho and Leandro Damiao in the last two windows.

A striker remains a priority because of Tottenham’s reliance on Bale last season. Barcelona forward David Villa is a leading target, but it is thought that Tottenham’s interest in Damiao has cooled.

Fellow Brazilians Paulinho and Bernard are also reported to be on Villas-Boas’s radar. The Guardian

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JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts introduces JWM Wine Club

JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts is pleased to introduce the new JWM Wine Club, designed exclusively for JW Marriott guests to complement their passion for wine and the in-home wine-tasting experience. Created in collaboration with Treasury Wine Estates, the JWM Wine Club provides members with carefully curated wine experiences, highlighting fine wines from some of California’s most awarded luxury estates.

The JWM Wine Club will introduce wine enthusiasts to the reserves and iconic labels of California’s most heralded wine estates with a sampling of four wines in a single-serving format shipped quarterly to a preferred address. Members will then select their two favorites and receive a 750ml bottle of each to enjoy. Additionally, wine tasting notes from a JW Marriott wine ambassador and recipes to pair with your wines from a hotel executive chef will be included with each shipment, providing members with the tools to learn about the life of the vine, duties of a winemaker and how to properly choose, taste and enjoy the best wine for any occasion. The cost to participate is $150 per shipment.

“We are thrilled to officially introduce our new JWM Wine Club, a program which was designed to further enhance our connection with our guests by providing luxuries that speak to their personal interest,” said Mitzi Gaskins, vice president & global brand manager for JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts. “The collaboration with Treasury Wine Estates offers an innovative way for guests to access and experience fine wine, providing them with a JW Marriott experience to savor at home at their leisure.”

“The JWM Wine Club is an extension of a very important strategic partnership between Treasury Wine Estates and JW Marriott,” said Nicole Carter, vice president, public relations for Treasury Wine Estates. “We are always looking for dynamic ways to talk to new consumers.  I believe the JWM Wine Club brings a new level of innovation into our hospitality business and allows us to bring a taste of California to consumers at home.”


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Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Air France KLM completes Airbus deal

Air France KLM has announced it has finalised a deal with European manufacturer Airbus for 25 new A350 jets with a further 25 on option.

The A350-900 aircrafts are equipped with Rolls-Royce XWB engines, which will significantly contribute to the performance of the Airbus A350.

In addition, this acquisition will reduce fuel consumption by over 15 per cent compared to the current aircraft, as well as reduce noise and gas emissions, further outlining the Group’s commitment to the environment.

Henri Hourcade, general manager Air France KLM, UK & Ireland, said: “This order of new-generation, high performance aircraft reflects the importance of our investments for the benefit of our customers, whose comfort is at the heart of our concerns.

“With the A350, Air France-KLM will continue to operate one of the most modern fleets in the world, and ensure the growth of its long-haul activity, while achieving significant cost savings.

“Furthermore this aircraft introduces major environmental advances and will contribute to our ambitious targets for noise and carbon reduction.”

The agreement was signed at the 50th International Air Show at Le Bourget near Paris.

Today’s announcement marks the completion of a deal with Airbus announced in September 2011 for 50 aircraft - 25 A350-900s and 25 Boeing 787-9s.

In December 2011, Air France-KLM also signed a contract to acquire 25 firm orders for Boeing 787-9s, with another 25 on option.

The first Boeing 787-9 aircraft is due to enter into service with KLM in 2016 with the first A350-900 is expected to be in service with Air France in 2018.


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Princess Cruises announces benefit cruise to support American Heart Association

Princess Cruises is celebrating CPR awareness during the month of June by announcing a special cruise to benefit the American Heart Association (AHA). Expected to raise $1 million for the Association’s heart health programs and educational outreach, the cruise is the second in Princess’ new “Cruising for a Cause” series that devotes an entire sailing to support a charitable cause.

Sailing from February 10-15, 2014, aboard Ruby Princess on a Caribbean cruise from Ft. Lauderdale, the five-day voyage will offer passengers a heart-themed experience, focused not only on “affairs of the heart,” but also a variety of onboard features themed around heart health awareness – including special guest speakers, educational activities and other programs to foster healthy living.

A portion of each passenger’s cruise fare, totaling approximately $500,000, will be matched by Princess Cruises with an additional $500,000, for a total of $1 million. The proceeds will be used to support the American Heart Association’s mission to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men and women in the United States, with one in every three deaths attributable to heart disease and stroke,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “Because we care about the health and well-being of our employees, passengers, and all members of the Princess family, we felt the American Heart Association would be the perfect fit for our second charity cruise.”

The American Heart Association cruise will sail on a Western Caribbean itinerary roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale, with calls at Grand Cayman and Cozumel.
Cruise fares range from $599 to $1,649 per person based on double occupancy. A tax-deductible portion of each fare ranging from $100 to $300 per person, depending upon cabin category, will be donated to the American Heart Association.

The cruise is the second of the company’s new “Cruising for a Cause” initiative where Princess will dedicate entire sailings to support select charitable causes. This new, industry-leading program will provide the line’s passengers, many of whom are looking for opportunities to make positive contributions to their communities and the world, a way to make a difference even as they vacation. The first cruise, to support U.S. veterans, will sail November 5-9, 2013, aboard Caribbean Princess.


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‘Tyregate’: Mercedes, Pirelli get wrist-slaps

LONDON — Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg were given the all-clear for next week’s British Grand Prix after their Mercedes Formula 1 team escaped heavy sanctions yesterday for a ‘secret’ tyre test with Pirelli.

An international tribunal reprimanded Mercedes and Pirelli for breaking the rules on testing and ordered the British-based team to miss a three-day young driver test scheduled for Silverstone in July.

The verdict, announced by the governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) in a statement after a seven-hour hearing in Paris on Thursday, will come as a relief for the team led by F1 veteran Ross Brawn.

The tribunal had the power to impose a heavy fine, dock points or even ban Mercedes from the world championship — although that was never a likely option for one of the sport’s major players.

Champions Red Bull, who had protested to the FIA at last month’s Monaco Grand Prix when they found out Mercedes had used their current car in the test, had indicated they wanted to see a tough response.

The tribunal ruled in its detailed written verdict that Mercedes had not intended to obtain any unfair sporting advantage by taking part in a tyre test at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya after the Spanish Grand Prix.

Teams are banned from testing during the season but Pirelli, who are sole tyre suppliers and not competitors, are allowed to do so with a representative car.

“Neither Pirelli nor Mercedes acted in bad faith at any material time,” the tribunal said, declaring that both parties had disclosed to the federation “at least the essence” of what they intended to do and had also sought permission.

“Mercedes had no reason to believe that approval had not been given,” it said, finding that FIA technical head Charlie Whiting had acted in good faith after taking advice from the FIA’s own legal department.

Despite that, Mercedes were found to have acted in breach of the rules, with the tribunal saying they did gain some material advantage as a result of their test with both 2008 champion Hamilton and subsequent Monaco winner Rosberg on track.

Mercedes, Pirelli and the FIA were ordered to pay a third each of the costs of the investigation and procedure, with the FIA paying all their own legal costs.

The young driver test ban was suggested by Mercedes themselves as a possible means of redress if the tribunal felt a sanction needed to be imposed.

The FIA said in a separate statement that it hoped lessons would be learnt from a case that was the first to be sent to the tribunal, which was set up in 2010 to deal with issues that race stewards were unable to rule on. REUTERS

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Protests inspire Neymar in Brazil win

Protests inspire Neymar in Brazil win | TODAYonline var dart_url = "http://ad.doubleclick.net";jQuery.extend(Drupal.settings, {"basePath":"\/","pathPrefix":"","ajaxPageState":{"theme":"today","theme_token":"n4sFI8ni4VhU7eMw1gDlXXK0wur6FQZSEn5lsU45Sa8","js":{"misc\/jquery.js":1,"misc\/jquery.once.js":1,"misc\/drupal.js":1,"misc\/jquery.cookie.js":1,"misc\/ajax.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/admin_menu\/admin_devel\/admin_devel.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/panels\/js\/panels.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/pollanon\/js\/jquery.cookie.min.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/pollanon\/js\/pollanon.pack.js":1,"misc\/progress.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/onix\/onix_newstream\/js\/newstream.engine.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/onix\/onix_facebook\/js\/onix_facebook.engine.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/onix\/onix_multimedia\/js\/onix-multimedia-fix.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/onix\/onix_multimedia\/js\/onix-multimedia-overlay.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/onix\/onix_bookmarks\/js\/onix_bookmarks.engine.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/radioactivity\/js\/radioactivity.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/dart\/dart.js":1,"0":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/jquery.tools.min.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/hoverIntent.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/scrollable.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/home.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/common.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/..\/..\/libraries\/fancybox\/jquery.fancybox-1.3.4.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/navigation.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/accordion.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/jquery.columnizer.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/jquery.jscrollpane.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/jquery.mousewheel.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/s_code.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/Omniture.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/jquery.ads.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/lightbox\/js\/lightbox.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/ajax.omniture.js":1,"1":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/onix\/onix_search\/js\/search.js":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/js\/mobile_detect.js":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/onix\/onix_share\/js\/share.engine.js":1},"css":{"modules\/system\/system.base.css":1,"modules\/system\/system.menus.css":1,"modules\/system\/system.messages.css":1,"modules\/system\/system.theme.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/calendar\/css\/calendar_multiday.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/date\/date_api\/date.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/date\/date_popup\/themes\/datepicker.1.7.css":1,"modules\/field\/theme\/field.css":1,"modules\/node\/node.css":1,"modules\/poll\/poll.css":1,"modules\/search\/search.css":1,"modules\/user\/user.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/views\/css\/views.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/ctools\/css\/ctools.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/panels\/css\/panels.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/pollanon\/pollanon.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/radioactivity\/css\/radioactivity.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/panels\/plugins\/layouts\/flexible\/flexible.css":1,"public:\/\/ctools\/css\/638aad109e1c846f7a833f3bc8f74711.css":1,"sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/panels\/plugins\/layouts\/onecol\/onecol.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/system.menus.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/normalize.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/wireframes.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/layouts\/fixed-width.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/page-backgrounds.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/tabs.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/pages.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/blocks.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/navigation.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/views-styles.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/nodes.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/comments.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/forms.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/fields.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/print.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/type.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/article.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/home.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/jquery.jscrollpane.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/onix_mosaic.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/onix_mosaic.generated.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/onix_print_edition.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/css\/onix_tv_guide.css":1,"sites\/all\/themes\/today\/lightbox\/css\/lightbox.css":1}},"onix_facebook":{"FBAppID":"146489805395077"},"onix_newstream":{"nid":"186141"},"search":null,"radioactivity":{"emitters":{"\/sites\/all\/modules\/contrib\/radioactivity\/emit.php":{"checksum":"4189cf99efd851110a2c742714b0a188","data":"a:1:{s:4:\u0022Live\u0022;a:1:{s:4:\u0022node\u0022;a:1:{s:7:\u0022article\u0022;a:1:{s:19:\u0022field_radioactivity\u0022;a:1:{s:3:\u0022und\u0022;a:1:{i:186141;i:10;}}}}}}"}},"flood_protection":{"enabled":false,"timeout":15}},"parent_mobile":{"mobile":"42"}}); 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Swissôtel outlines new Baku, Azerbaijan, property

The expansion of Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts continues at the crossroads of south-west Asia and Europe with a new deluxe hotel in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Scheduled to open in 2015, Swissôtel Baku is currently under construction and will open in time for the first European Olympic Games.

The mixed use complex consists of two towers set upon a shared podium which will accommodate businesses, retail and entertainment outlets and numerous restaurants.

Swissôtel Baku will be situated in the taller, 160-metre tower and will offer 149 rooms and suites, as well as a Swissôtel Living with 45 furnished apartments and 80 Swissôtel Residences, which will be sold to private individuals looking to enjoy the benefits of Swissôtel services from the comfort of their home.

Food and beverage offerings will include a lobby bar and lounge, an all-day restaurant, and a restaurant and bar on the top floor which will boast panoramic views over the city.

Additional facilities will comprise a 2100sqm Pürovel Spa & Sport, the company’s signature spa brand, and 3000sqm of meeting and event facilities including a dedicated 900sqm outdoor space.

Swissôtel Baku is ideally situated with a prominent, elevated position featuring unrivalled views across the city and its crescent shaped bay. The hotel is located in an elegant, residential area of the city and is close to the Parliament buildings.

Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, is the economic and cultural heart of the country and boasts several universities, colleges, research institutes, theatres and museums.

With its population of two million inhabitants, it is the most densely-populated city in the Caucasus. 

Nestled between the Caucasus and the Caspian Sea, and bordering Russia to the north, Georgia to the north-west and Armenia to the west, Azerbaijan has been an independent state since 1991.

The economy has seen exponential growth, largely due to the expansion of the oil industry and increased production of natural gas, representing the two most important economic sectors for the country.

The owner and developer of the project is Arya Insaat, advised by one of the world’s leading hospitality consultancies, Servotel Corporation.

The project will be designed by internationally recognized and award-winning architectural firm Kreatif Mimarlik.


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easyJet launches flights to Santiago de Compostela

easyJet has celebrated the launch of its first flight from London Gatwick to Santiago de Compostela, the capital city of the Galicia region in western Spain.

The thrice weekly, year round flights are expected to be very popular with British holidaymakers looking for a city full of breathtaking historical monuments steeped in tradition and spiritual heritage.

Visitors can enjoy the spectacular Santiago de Compostela Cathedral along with the destination’s unique blend of cultural influences at the heart of its cuisine and numerous other visitor attractions.

The city is set against the beautiful backdrop of the Galician mountains and unspoilt greenery boasting over a million square metres of public parks and green areas and with the beach under an hour away by car, Santiago de Compostela really does have something for everyone.

Paul Simmons, UK director, easyJet, said: “We’re delighted to be launching our inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Santiago de Compostela today.

“Spain remains a firm favourite for British holidaymakers so with over 8.5 million seats available this year alone we’re sure that it will be a strong addition to our existing services from London Gatwick.”

In November 2012, easyJet announced a strategic partnership with Spanish hotel institution, the Paradores de Turismo de España – the first collaboration of its kind for the hotel group, offering flight inclusive short breaks and holidays via the easyJet Holidays website.

Located across mainland Spain (and the Canary Islands,) the Paradores offer a unique and authentic take on tourism with no two Paradores the same.

The Parador Santiago di Compostela is often considered the most prestigious in the group’s portfolio and flights direct to the city will enable quick and convenient access direct from London Gatwick.


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Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Japan coach Zaccheroni prepares to face Italy at Confederations Cup

RECIFE (Brazil) - Alberto Zaccheroni’s first foray into international football culminated in a resounding success, and his second big tournament hinges on a meeting with his home country.

Zaccheroni, a 60-year-old tactical expert from Italy who has coached several top Serie A clubs, qualified Japan for the Confederations Cup by leading the team to the Asian Cup title in 2011. But the Japanese lost to Brazil 3-0 on Saturday in the opening match of this year’s World Cup warm-up tournament, putting their chances of reaching the semi-finals in early danger.

To make things more difficult for Zaccheroni and Japan, they face Italy on Wednesday in Group A at the Arena Pernambuco.

“I could say that this is just one step in our path, but clearly for me that’s not the whole story,” Zaccheroni said yesterday (June 18). “When I started coaching I imagined many possible scenarios, but not this. Not the fact that I might find myself coaching a team playing against Italy.”

Zaccheroni took over Japan’s team in 2010, shortly after leaving Juventus. In 1999, he coached AC Milan to the Serie A title, and he has also been at the helm at Inter Milan.

When he was introduced as Japan’s coach three years ago, he said he wanted to create great memories for Japan by bringing “Zaccheroni football, Zaccheroni samurai” to the country’s national team.

Less than a year later, Japan was champion of Asia.

“This is not just like any ordinary game, but clearly I am focused on trying to help my team develop,” Zaccheroni said. “So far they have done very well. They deserve to qualify for the Confederations Cup.”

Besides qualifying for the eight-team tournament in Brazil, Japan also became the first team to qualify for next year’s World Cup, which will be played at some of the same venues in use this month.

“We are here to get some good preparation, international experience, ahead of the World Cup next year, so this is our opportunity to grow and to develop,” Zaccheroni said. “Clearly just in the space of one year we will not be able to compete with the very best teams, but our goal is to reduce the gap between the strongest teams in the world and Japan.”

Against Italy, Zaccheroni will be facing several familiar faces, starting with counterpart Cesare Prandelli - who he calls a friend. The Italy coach led his team to the 2012 European Championship final but then lost to Spain. In the opening match of the Confederations Cup, Italy beat Mexico 2-1. AP

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Fandi, Johor also raging at the haze

KLUANG — The haze has been fair to everyone.

Just as it forced the LionsXII to train indoors yesterday, the smoggy fog that is currently sweeping across Malaysia is also hampering Johor Darul Takzim’s preparations for Saturday’s clash.

Visibility has been poor at the Kluang Municipal Stadium, where Johor coach Fandi Ahmad has been holding his training sessions this past week because of its newly-laid artificial turf.

That is not all — the heat has been unbearable too.

“You can see how the haze has been affecting my training sessions,” said an exasperated Fandi.

“You really cannot see clearly and the weather is exceptionally hot. I have told my players to drink more water and take care of their health. It’s not good to train under such conditions. But what can we do? In Singapore, the condition is bad too. The only thing I can hope and ask for is for the haze to clear in the next few days.”

When asked if he thought the match should be postponed, Fandi said diplomatically: “The Football Association of Malaysia is in a better position to decide whether it’s safe to play a 90-minute match under such conditions. We will abide by whatever decisions they make,” he said.

And like the LionsXII, Johor are also having problems in defence. Fandi is keeping his fingers crossed that his central defender and skipper Kamarul Afiq Kamaruddin will recover in time from his knee injury.

“He has been playing with the help of painkiller injections lately,” he said. “It’s a pity, really, because he is such a talented player. To be saddled with such an injury is of no help to his budding career.”

Meanwhile, Johor’s Brazilian midfielder Andre Francisco has warned his team-mates of the tough battle ahead on Saturday.

“I was part of the Johor team which played the LionsXII in the Malaysia Cup last year and I can see that the Singaporeans are very comfortable on the pitch, while we were struggling,” he said.

“It will be tough on Saturday, too, because the LionsXII have got an even better team this time and have an unbeaten record to maintain. The incentive is there for them to raise their game.” DAN GUEN CHIN

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San Antonio’s title ... gone in 28 seconds

MIAMI — The rope was being laid along the baselines, a braided border signalling finality, a familiar indicator of the revelry to come. Security guards crouched along it. Somewhere, just out of sight, the Larry O’Brien trophy awaited its reunion with the San Antonio Spurs’ Tim Duncan and Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili and coach Gregg Popovich.

Twenty-eight seconds were left on the clock on Tuesday night when the NBA began prepping for the Spurs’ coronation — their first in six years, their fifth since 1999. The lead was 94-89. The Miami Heat were wheezing, their fans turning away in despair.

Legacies were hurriedly being revised and enhanced — Duncan’s legend growing, LeBron James’ shrinking. The end was that close.

The trophy never did see the court, its moment postponed by Ray Allen’s shooting stroke, by James’ stubborn insistence, by Chris Bosh’s spiteful palm.

The Heat wiped out the deficit in two shots, spaced 15 seconds apart, then overpowered the Spurs in overtime, taking a 103-100 victory that will rank among the greatest games in Finals history. The series is tied again, 3-3. The championship will be decided in Miami tonight (tomorrow morning, Singapore time).

James, his much-debated legacy still intact, posted a triple-double and led the Heat back from a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit, leaving no doubts about his will or his intent.

“It was by far the best game I’ve ever been a part of,” said James, who had 16 points in the final 17 minutes, finishing with 32 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds.

“The ups and downs, the roller coaster, the emotions, good and bad, throughout the whole game.”

Every player, coach and team official looked spent afterward — the Heat exhausted and giddy, the Spurs simply shattered.

James was shaky early and brilliant late, scoring when he had to, feeding open team-mates and shutting down Parker down the stretch. Mario Chalmers was vital, with 20 points. And Bosh was absolutely essential, with two huge blocks in the final minute, including a swat of Danny Green’s 3-point attempt at the final buzzer.

“It’s a hard one to shake off,” Green said. “We’re going to have to.”

Duncan scored 30 points, his highest total of the post-season, but he went scoreless in the fourth quarter and overtime. Parker had 19 points and eight assists, but he missed a 12-footer at the regulation buzzer, and his shot was blocked by Bosh in the final minute of overtime. And Ginobili, whose re-emergence keyed the Spurs’ Game 5 victory, this time undermined their chances with eight turnovers.

“I have no clue how we’re going to be re-energised,” Ginobili said. “I’m devastated. Bad. Very bad.”

Seconds away from a championship, the Spurs are faced with a Game 7 and a truly daunting task. No road team has won a Game 7 in the finals since 1978. Five others since then have failed.

The Heat are now 7-0 in this post-season after a loss. But to claim the title, they will have to win consecutive games — a feat they have not accomplished in weeks, having alternating wins and losses for 13 straight games.

The Spurs took a 100-97 lead in overtime. The Heat promptly erased it, going ahead 101-100 on James’ 7-foot jumper. But James missed his next attempt, then lost the ball out of bounds on a fast break, leaving the door ajar for the Spurs to take the game, the series, the title.

Bosh snuffed the Spurs’ first chance, just grazing Parker’s jumper with his fingertips. Allen stuffed the next chance, stripping Ginobili in the lane — a play the Spurs insist was a foul. Allen hit two free throws with 1.9 seconds left to seal the victory.

The Heat’s uncanny streak of resiliency remains intact: They have not lost consecutive games since Jan 8 to 10. THE NEW YORK TIMES

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