Nicolas C. Solari

Asian Hospitality Awards 2009

2009-03-09T01:44:00.000-07:00

The Asia Hotel leaders Summit Awards called Golden Olive are given in recognition of excellence in the industry.

Nikko Hotel Dalian is nominated for the "best business brand hotel" Asia hotel Golden Olive Award 2009
Nicolas C. Solari is nominated for "best General Manager Asia hotel" Golden Olive Award 2009

The organizing body includes:
China Travel and Hotel Management Association
Ecole Hotelliere Lausanne / Hong Kong
Asia Pacific Tourism Organization
Asia Brand Construction Association
Asia Pacific "Forbes Brand research center
China Hotel Brand Research center

http://www.cnthn.com/09fh/

Dalian will host 3rd WEF meeting in China

2008-03-01T00:57:00.000-08:00

Mövenpick Hotel Cairo-Heliopolis No Longer Part of the Swiss Hotel Group’s Portfolio

2007-05-25T06:54:00.000-07:00

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon upon his arrival in Sharm welcomed by N. Solari

2007-05-15T23:41:00.001-07:00

Greetings for Secretary General Ban Ki-moon by Manager Nicolas C. Solari

During the Meeting in the Sharm El Sheikh international congress center

Taro Aso, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan at Iraq Compaq Summit, Sharm El Sheikh

2007-05-15T23:41:00.000-07:00

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon (right) meets with Taro Aso, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, after the Ministerial meeting of Iraq's neighbouring countries in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.
Location: Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
Date: 04 May 2007

US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice at Sharm El Sheikh international congress center for the Iraq Compaq

2007-05-15T22:22:00.000-07:00

Nicolas C. Solari, Manager of the congress center welcome US secretary Condoleezza Rice

Dr. Rice during the Ministerial meeting for Iraq Reconstruction

Press conference held by Condoleeza Rice in the Luxor room of the International congress center

US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice leaving Sharm El Sheikh

Maritim Royal Peninsula Video

2007-05-15T00:13:00.000-07:00

Internationale Irak-Konferenz bei Maritim

2007-05-10T02:46:00.000-07:00

Who's where and doing what: May 2007

2007-05-10T01:51:00.000-07:00

Nicolas Solari Welcome Political Figures For Iraq Compaq in Sharm Newest Hotel

2007-05-06T19:37:00.000-07:00

His Excellency Sheik Dr. Mohammed Sabah Al-Sabah, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait stayed at Royal Peninsula during Iraq Compaq.

2007-05-05T23:47:00.000-07:00

Nicolas C. Solari, Maritim Royal Peninsula Manager, welcome H.E. Sheik Dr. Mohammed Sabah Al-Sabah

Danish Delegation and Foreign Minister Per Stig Moeller welcomed by Manager Nicolas Solari upon arrival in SHarm El Sheikh

2007-05-05T23:23:00.000-07:00

Iraq's Foreign Minister Hoshiyar Zebari in Sharm El Sheikh

2007-05-05T23:18:00.000-07:00

Welcomed upon arrival by Manager Nicolas C, Solari

Holding press interview in the lobby of the Maritim Royal Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh

Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Margaret Beckett

2007-05-05T23:10:00.000-07:00

Greeted upon arrival by Maritim Royal Peninsula Manager Nicolas C. Solari

Arab League’s secretary-general, Amr Moussa Welcomed at the international congress center by Manager Nicolas C. Solari

2007-05-05T22:51:00.000-07:00

At the entrance of the state of the art congress center

During Compaq meeting for Iraq next to UN secretary Ban-Kimoon

A popular figure in the political arab world

With Iraq PM Al-Maliki

Nicolas C. Solari to Welcome head of Iraq Delegation For Ministerial Meeting

2007-05-05T22:30:00.000-07:00

Nicolas C. Solari, Congress center & Hotel manager for Maritim Welcome Iraqi Prime Minister Al-Maliki

PM Al-Maliki During the ministerial meeting for Iraq Reconstruction

Nicolas Solari Congratulate Dr. Barham Salih, Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq

2007-05-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

interviewed in the garden of the Maritim Royal Peninsula

Iraq's Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to lead delegation in Sharm El Sheikh ministerial meeting for reconstruction

2007-05-05T22:08:00.000-07:00

Nicolas C. Solari Welcoming Iraq Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki upon arrival at the resort

Thomas Wachs Maritim Hotels Board Member, PM Maliki, Nicolas Solari Maritim Royal Peninsula manager

US secretary of State Rice with Iraqi PM Al-Maliki in the Royal Suite of the Maritim Royal Peninsula

Saudi Foreign Minister Saud al-Faysal bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud in Sharm for the Iraq Compaq

2007-05-05T02:49:00.000-07:00

Компания Maritim продолжает расширять свое присутствие за пределами страны

2007-05-05T02:10:00.000-07:00

Javier Solana, European Union High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy Welcomed by Nicolas Solari In Sharm El Sheikh

2007-05-05T00:06:00.000-07:00

Maritim Sharm El Sheikh hosts International Conference of Foreign Ministers on Iraq security

2007-05-04T06:49:00.000-07:00

Members of the Iraqi and US delegations,meeting in the Royal suite of the royal peninsula

2007-05-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice meet Iraq Delegation in Royal Peninsula Suite

2007-05-03T23:42:00.000-07:00

General Ban Ki-moon listen at the international conference on Iraq in Sharm El Sheikh May 3

2007-05-03T06:45:00.000-07:00

Rice & Robert Kimmitt En Route Sharm el-Sheikh

2007-05-02T22:26:00.001-07:00

Iran to Attend Iraq Summit in Sharm el Sheikh

2007-05-02T22:24:00.000-07:00

foreign minister and US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice

2007-05-02T22:21:00.000-07:00

Iran to attend Sharm el-Sheikh meet to support Iraq: Larijani

2007-05-02T22:20:00.000-07:00

Secretary-General meets with world leaders ahead of Iraq Compact launch

2007-05-02T22:18:00.001-07:00

Ban Ki-moon heads to Sharm el-Sheikh

2007-05-02T22:16:00.000-07:00

WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM - SHARM EL SHEIKH

2007-04-27T23:34:00.000-07:00

Hosni Mubarak opens World Economic Forum on the Middle East—Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has opened the World Economic Forum on the Middle East with a call to the international community to work together to resolve regional conflicts. “Peace and development are indivisible,” the President told more than 1,200 government, business and civil society leaders from 46 countries meeting in Sharm El Sheikh.

“The Middle East stands at a crossroads and it is up to us to make choices. Egypt’s choice is peace as it is the only path to development. We seek international partnership based on investment and not on aid and assistance. We are confident that building democratic societies is the only way to a better future that we seek,” he told participants.Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum said the meeting was “the most powerful demonstration of hope and will and determination to create the necessary conditions for economic, social and political development.”

Security and protocol are ready at the Sharm el Sheikh International Congress Center, to welcome this prestigious event

Maritim opens hotel and congress center in Egypt

2007-04-26T04:56:00.000-07:00

Maritim opens hotel and congress center in Egypt

Bad Salzuflen. The German Maritim Hotel company is further expanding abroad. On the 1st of April, 2007, the company took over the Royal Peninsula Hotel & Resort and the neighbouring Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Center.
They are now being operated as Maritim Royal Peninsula Hotel & Resort and Maritim Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Center. By taking over these properties the hotel company gets involved for the first time with important projects in the congress and hotel business in Egypt.

Nicolas C. Solari Hotel manager

and U. Mockenhaupt project manager

when branding the Maritim Royal Peninsula

The Maritim Royal Peninsula Hotel & Resort, the 47th Maritim Hotel worldwide, consists of 17 bungalow style buildings that incorporate 337 elegant rooms and suites. Each room has a minimum size of 60 square metres. If required these can be combined to form 24 large suites. Thus the luxury hotel is able to offer suitable accommodation for government delegations and large families.The hotel is laid out very generously. On 20,000 square metres it offers more than enough space to guarantee privacy for its guests even at full occupancy. The large pool measures 2.000 square metres. In the Thai spa and health club which also includes a hammam, saunas and hydro therapy guests can relax and regenerate. Tennis courts, volleyball, a multipurpose court, a hairdresser and a beauty salon are also available.Maritim pays special attention to the culinary desires of its guests.

Works in progress

The resort comprises of the buffet restaurant "Peninsula" with a large terrace, the Italian restaurant "Il Forno" where, among other specialities, original stone oven baked pizzas are prepared, and the Thai restaurant "Siam" with an award winning chef leading an ambitious kitchen team. There are three bars which offer refreshments: the Windsor Lounge with an original British flair, the Panorama Bar and the Pool Bar.The neighbouring Maritim Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Center opened at the beginning of 2006. It offers the most modern conference facilities in the area and comprises of eleven meeting rooms with sizes of 140 to 800 square metres which are partly combinable. The largest hall measures 2,200 square metres and can accommodate up to 2,000 people. A further six VIP meeting rooms are available for smaller meetings. The congress centre is equipped with the latest in conference technology including a variety of translation booths, modern filming facilities with TV quality and an elaborate lighting system. For large receptions the lobby and restaurant can be used.As of January, 2008, three further hotels in Egypt will run as Maritim Hotels, two in Sharm El Sheikh and one in Luxor. Respective contracts were signed last March between Maritim and the Egyptian HKS Group.With presently 47 hotels, Maritim Hotelgesellschaft is ranked among the leading German hotel chains. Ten of the hotels are abroad in Belek, Marmaris and Alanya (all Turkey), Djerba and Yasmine Hammamet (Tunisia), Egypt, Malta, Mauritius, Riga (Latvia) and Tenerife. As marketing and sales partner of Millennium & Copthorne Hotels plc Maritim is represented worldwide. The strong position of Maritim Hotelgesellschaft within the European first class hotel market will be strengthened further by continual growth.

A new light in the night of Sharm El Sheikh

Link to reservation

Nicolas C. Solari has been appointed as the opening manager for the new Maritim Royal Peninsula & Spa, in Sharm El Sheikh

2007-04-24T02:17:00.001-07:00

Maritim Royal Peninsula & Spa, in Sharm El Sheikh appoints Nicolas Solari

2007-04-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

JOLIE VILLE RESORTS Von Mövenpick zu Maritim

2007-04-12T10:03:00.000-07:00

Die drei Mövenpick-Jolie-Ville-Resorts in Ägypten sind ein fester Wert bei
Veranstaltern wie Kunden hierzulande. Auf Ende dieses Jahres wird die Partnerschaft
aufgelöst, neu steigt Maritim als Partner ein. Annatina Pinösch, die
Schweizer Präsidentin der Jolie Ville Resorts, stand der ST Red und Antwort.

Das war die grosse Neuigkeit während
der ITB in Berlin: «Ab dem 1. Januar
2008 gehören die drei beliebten
Mövenpick-Resorts – das Jolie Ville Golf &
Resort und das Jolie Ville Resort & Casino in
Sharm el Sheikh sowie das Jolie Ville Luxor
Resort – zur Maritim-Familie», gab Gerd Prochaska,
Geschäftsführer der Maritim Hotelgesellschaft,
bekannt. Das heisst nichts anderes,
als dass eine Partnerschaft, die seit 23 Jahren
Bestand hatte, Ende dieses Jahres beendet
wird. «Mövenpick stieg vor 23 Jahren bei Jolie
Ville in Luxor ein. Vor 16 Jahren kam das Engagement
in Sharm an der Naama Bay und vor
zehn Jahren, ebenfalls in Sharm, das mit dem
Golfhotel hinzu», blickt die Bündnerin Annatina
Pinösch auf eine bewegte Zeit zurück. Sie
ist Präsidentin der ägyptischen Hotelkette Jolie
Ville. Besitzer ist Hussein Salem.
Einfach so löst man eine derart lange Partnerschaft
nicht auf. «Stimmt», sagt Pinösch
und liefert die Erklärung: «Die Ägypter waren
zu Beginn der touristischen Entwicklung froh,
auf einen starken Partner wie Mövenpick zählen
zu dürfen. Nun hat sich die Destination
zusammen mit unseren
Hotels zu einer veritablen Grösse
im Konferenzbereich entwickelt.
Deshalb wurde der Vertrag mit
Mövenpick nicht weiter verlängert,
und Maritim kam als neuer
Partner ins Spiel.»
In der Tat sind die Maritim
Hotels im Konferenzgeschäft eine
gefragte Grösse. Und wie Pinösch
weiter erklärt, machte sich Salem
bereits seit längerer Zeit Gedanken,
wie der Ertrag der Resorts
verbessert werden könnte. Seine

Lösung lautet: Konferenzen. In Sharm el
Sheikh finden öfters grosse internationale
Konferenzen statt. Und da nun in sämtlichen
Jolie-Ville-Resorts entsprechende Infrastrukturen
für 500 und mehr Leute vorhanden sind,
lag das Zusammengehen mit Maritim nahe.
Von der Konferenz zum Golfplatz
«Was wollen Sie mehr als konferieren und anschliessend
ausspannen, aufs Meer fahren, zu
Korallenriffen tauchen, in die Wüste fahren
oder unmittelbar neben dem Hotel Golf spielen?
», fragt Pinösch völlig zurecht. Mit einem
verschmitzten Lächeln fügt sie an, wie mühsam
beispielsweise die tägliche Fahrt zur Messe
in Berlin sei. In Sharm dagegen kenne man
weder Verkehrsstaus noch lange Anfahrtswege.
In unmittelbarer Nähe zum Golfhotel und
nicht weit vom Flughafen entfernt baute Salem
mit dem Jolie Ville International Congress
Center zusätzlich ein riesiges Konferenzzentrum,
das letztes Jahr eröffnet wurde. Im Theater
allein findet sich Platz für 2000 Personen.
Daneben gibt es eine Menge «kleinerer Räume
» mit Sitzkapazitäten bis 800 Personen.
Für die Schweizer ändert sich nichts
Pinösch blickt mit einiger Erwartung in die Zukunft,
denn für sie ist klar: «Ausser dem Logo
ändert sich nichts», lautet ihre Botschaft an
die Reisebüros. Sämtliche Angestellte bis zum
obersten Kader bleiben. Ihr Chef, Salem, sei
bereits bisher Besitzer, Investor, Arbeitgeber
und alleiniger Risikoträger.
«Sämtliche Verträge wurden mit ihm gemacht.
Die Daten der Gäste bleiben bestehen,
und wenn jemand den gleichen Kellner am
Tisch haben möchte wie im letzten Jahr, wird
dies auch künftig so sein», erklärt die «Eiserne
Lady von Sharm el Sheikh». Sie erhielt diese
«Auszeichnung», weil sie als erste Frau am Roten
Meer eine führende Position beanspruchte
und sich in einer Männerdomäne behaupten
musste. «Ich verfolge eine strenge, gerade, aber
gerechte Linie. Vor allem aber erwarte ich von
den höheren Positionen mehr Leistungsbereitschaft,
als diese sich gewohnt waren», erklärt
sie kurz vor ihrer Rückreise nach Sharm.

McDonald Says "I'm Loving it!" to Sharm-El-Sheikh International Congress Center

2007-04-07T06:08:00.000-07:00

SHARM EL SHEIKH INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS CENTER –

The Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Center hosted the McDonalds Middle East & Africa Restaurant Managers Convention, over 350 participants from 15 different countries attended the exhibition which exhibited over 25 different international supply companies.

Nicolas C. Solari, Manager of the new

Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Center ,

Greeting the McDonald Icon

All the participants stayed at the Jolie Ville Golf & Resort for the 4 days they were in Sharm and held all their meeting and training in most of the 18 large and comfortable meeting rooms of the congress center.

The Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Center has hosted many events since opening their doors with amongst them the famous World Economic Forum in April of 2006.

Chefs of the SHICC putting the final touch

to the Gala Dinner buffet

The Congress center is Sharm El Sheikhs newest addition into the expansion of Sharm, Nicolas C. Solari added Sharm is no longer just a vacation destination but a MICE destination and our new slogan is “Meet at Leisure!”.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts to Part with Jolie Ville

2007-03-07T00:17:00.000-08:00

07.03.2007:
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts to Part with Jolie Ville at the End of 2007.

It has been decided by Jolie Ville Hotels Management Co. and Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts that the Marketing and Technical Operational Assistance Agreement which is due to expire at the end of 2007 will not be extended. As of 1 January 2008 the Jolie Ville hotels in Sharm El Sheikh and Luxor will therefore no longer be part of the Swiss hotel group’s portfolio.

The decision concerns the Jolie Ville Mövenpick Resort & Casino Sharm El Sheikh, Jolie Ville Mövenpick Golf & Resort Sharm El Sheikh and Jolie Ville Mövenpick Luxor Resort, all of which will continue to be managed under the brand of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts until the end of the year.

“We would like to thank Mr. Hussein Salem and Jolie Ville Hotels Management Co. for the good co-operation over the past 18 years. The partnership was instrumental in enabling us to take our first steps in Egypt and the Middle East,” said Jean Gabriel Pérès, President & CEO Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. “We now wish Jolie Ville Hotels Management Co. every success for the future.”

“Egypt has always been an extremely attractive market for Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts,” explained Josef Kufer, Senior Vice President Africa Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. “Indeed we have just signed management agreements for new deluxe cruisers on the Nile and Lake Nasser, underscoring our strategic commitment to Egypt in the future and our intention to expand further in this market.”

Because of the rapid growth of the international hotel chain, the board of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has decided to only enter into management contracts and no longer into technical or franchised agreements. This decision was reached in order to protect the branding initiatives and to guarantee the renowned Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Swiss values and quality standards.

Maritim with further three hotels in Egypt

2007-03-07T00:14:00.000-08:00

Three popular resorts soon under the Maritim flag
Bad Salzuflen/Berlin - Wednesday, March 07, 2007.

The expansion of German Maritim Hotel Company is accelerating.
From 1st January, 2008, three popular resorts, the Jolie Ville Golf & Resort Sharm El Sheikh, the Jolie Ville Resort & Casino Sharm El Sheikh and the Jolie Ville Luxor Resort will join the Maritim family.
Respective contracts were signed on 6th March, 2007, in Berlin by Maritim and Khaled H. Salem, Vice-Chairman of the Egyptian HKS Group and Chairman of Jolie Ville Resorts.
All three five-star hotels were previously run as Mövenpick Hotels. With this move Maritim further establishes itself in the international resort hotel business and at the same time lays the foundation for a promising future partnership with the HKS Group and Jolie Ville Resorts.

Further joint projects are planned.

The future Maritim Jolie Ville Golf & Resort Sharm El Sheikh with 418 rooms and suites and four luxury villas is situated on the south tip of the Sinai Peninsula directly on the shores of the Red Sea. It comprises of ten restaurants and bars where guests can find a wide choice of international specialities and refreshing drinks. Two pools including an impressive adventure aqua park for kids, a health club, four tennis courts and a diving and water sports centre offer a range of activities. This is the ideal spot to discover the underwater life of the Red Sea, one of the most beautiful dive areas of the world. An 18-hole PGA Championship golf course with driving range, putting greens and a 3-hole short course for practising as well as a clubhouse are also part of the resort. The spectacular backdrop of the Sinai Mountains adds a very special touch to every round of golf. The adjoining conference centre accommodates up to 800 persons.

The Maritim Jolie Ville Resort & Casino Sharm El Sheikh with 396 rooms and suites can be found at the sandy beach of Naama Bay. It offers nine restaurants and bars with a wide selection of culinary delights, including exotic evenings with a beach barbecue or a Bedouin dinner. Two pools, a health club, four tennis courts, a diving centre and a variety of other water sports facilities guarantee an active day. If they feel like it guests can explore the fascinating desert landscape for a few hours by jeep or exercise some camel riding. Part of the compound is a congress centre with a capacity of up to 880 persons. The hotel became known worldwide in 1996 when the most important heads of state gathered there for the Near East Peace Summit.

The Maritim Jolie Ville Luxor Island Resort can be found in a lush tropical garden on a private island in the river Nile in Upper Egypt, approximately four kilometres from Luxor and six kilometres from the Valley of the Kings and the antique temples of Karnak and Luxor. The extensive resort comprises of 332 rooms and suites, seven restaurants and bars, two pools, one of them a large infinity pool, a fitness and massage centre, and a kids club. The wide offer of activities further includes tennis and a nearby 18-hole Championship golf course. The conference area with four halls is suitable for meetings for up to 250 persons. The hotel is ideal for excursions to the nearby antique sites and for discovering the Nile on a sailing trip.

World News From The Middle East - May 3, 2007

2007-03-05T00:38:00.000-08:00

Conde Nast Traveler Choice

2007-02-16T08:20:00.000-08:00

CRUISE SHIPS

1. SeaDream Yacht Club 92.6
2. Grand Circle Cruise Line 91.9
3. Regent Seven Seas 91.7
4. Seabourn 90.3
5. Silversea 89.8
6. Windstar 83.2
7. Peter Deilmann 82.5
8. Lindblad Expeditions 82.0
9. Celebrity 81.3
10. Viking River Cruises 80.8 (Viking Century Sky 85,2)

Conde Nast Traveler Cruise poll 2007

2007-02-16T08:01:00.000-08:00

18. Viking Century Sky
Viking River Cruises
PASSENGERS:
306
RATINGS
Overall: 85.2
Itineraries: 100
Shore Excursions: 100
Crew/Service: 89.7
Cabins: 72.4
Food/Dining: 82.8
Activities/Facilities: 72.4
Design/Layout: 79.3
CONTACT
Viking River Cruiseshttp://www.vikingrivercruises.com/Tel: 877 668 4546

1.
SeaDream II SeaDream Yacht Club, 95.2
2.
River AriaGrand Circle, 94.8
3.
Silver ShadowSilversea, 92.5
4.
River AdagioGrand Circle, 92.4
5.
Silver Cloud Silversea, 92.0
6.
Seven Seas Navigator Regent Seven Sea, 91.9
7.
Seabourn Spirit Seabourn, 91.7
8.
Empress of the North Majestic America Line, 91.5
9.
River Melody Grand Circle, 91.4
10.
Paul Gauguin Regent Seven Seas, 90.9
11.
SeaDream I SeaDream Yacht Club, 90.7
12.
Seabourn Legend Seabourn, 90.2
14.
Silver Whisper Silversea, 89.1
15.
Seabourn Pride Seabourn, 89.0
16.
Wind Spirit Windstar, 88.2
17.
Polaris Lindblad Expeditions, 85.7
18.
River Anuket Grand Circle, 85.2
18.
Viking Century Sky Viking River Cruises, 85.2
20.
Clipper Odyssey Clipper, 85.1
21.
Viking Europe Viking River Cruises, 84.0
21.
Viking Spirit Viking River Cruises, 84.0
23.
Silver Wind Silversea, 83.9
24.
Wind StarWindstar, 82.4
25.
EndeavourLindblad Expeditions, 81.8
26.
Celebrity Xpedition Celebrity, 81.3
27.
Wind Surf Windstar, 80.6
28.
Mozart Peter Deilmann, 79.9
29.
Sea Lion Lindblad Expeditions, 79.4
30.
Spirit of Yorktown (Formerly the Yorktown Clipper) Cruise West, 78.8
31.
River Countess Uniworld, 77.1
32.
Spirit of Endeavour Cruise West, 77.0
33.
River Princess Uniworld, 76.9
34.
Viking Burgundy Viking River Cruises, 75.9
35.
Royal Clipper Star Clippers, 75.5
36.
Mandalay Windjammer, 75.0

New Challenge for Nicolas Solari

2007-02-08T06:16:00.000-08:00

Nicolas C. Solari has been appointed as the opening manager for the new Maritim Royal Peninsula Hotel & Resort, in Sharm El Sheikh.
Nicolas will also head the Sharm El Sheikh international Congress Center, to be branded Maritim.

The new Maritim Royal Peninsula is conceptualized to be able to welcome head of states or large families as well as individual traveler in a resort spirit.

This resort is elegantly distributed in 17 bungalow in an almost 200’000 sqm. of luxuriant landscape and have a capacity of 337 rooms or suite with a large amount of communicating rooms all featuring private terrace and large bathtubs.

Each bungalow can accommodate Executive Suite of 210 sqm., Executive Room of 90 sqm, and Typical Room of a generous 60 sqm.

The resort offers recreational facilities such as, a swimming pool of 2000 sqm. with Jacuzzi, Tennis court, beach volleyball, animation and kids corner.

An authentic Thai Spa with master therapists from Thailand is also available for relaxing Asian or classic treatments with Hamm am, sauna and hydrotherapy.

The dinning experience is focused on quality and innovative creations, it include:

“Al Forno”, is an Italian restaurant, offering an undisputed best wooden-oven pizza and featuring typical delicacies from several Italian provinces.

“Siam” a trendy restaurant with Gold medals Thai Chefs.

“The Peninsula” is a sumptuous buffet restaurant with local and international cuisine, over-looking the pool where the sunsets are memorable.

“The Panorama fun-bar” features small bites from the world from Tapas to Mezzeh and Chinoiseries and the best fruit cocktails in Egypt, with international entertainment.

“The Windsor lounge” with its cozy British atmosphere is the meeting place for Epicureans with a large selection of Cigars and best brandies and Cognacs.
It also offers delicious cacao and chocolate creations.

“The pool bar” caters Californian BBQ items, pretzels, Ice cream, and a selection of healthy sandwiches for light lunches under your favorite umbrella.

In room dining is available 24 hours and mini bar are placed in every rooms.

A large catering service is also available for events and conferences throughout the property and the Convention center.

WIFI high-speed Internet connectivity is available throughout the all property.

The Jolie Ville Royal Peninsula is adjacent to the now famous SHICC (http://www.jolieville-conferences.com/) and next door to the MENA awarded best golf course in Middle East and Africa, the PGA Championship Jolie Ville Sharm El Sheikh Golf Course.

VIKING RIVER CRUISES NAMED ‘BEST RIVER CRUISE LINE’

2007-01-31T08:59:00.000-08:00

VIKING RIVER CRUISES NAMED ‘BEST RIVER CRUISE LINE’
#1 River Cruise line wins three such titles in one year

LOS ANGELES (January 3, 2007) - Travel agents nationwide cast their votes for the best in travel, and Viking River Cruises was again named the number one river cruise line this past December. Travel Weekly readers were invited to submit nominations for ‘Reader’s Choice Awards” in a variety of categories during open voting this past summer. Finalists were selected from the leading submissions, followed by a second round of voting, with winners announced in New York City this past December.
"We are delighted to receive this recognition from the industry," said Torstein Hagen, Founding Chairman, Viking River Cruises. "We continue our strong support of the travel trade, and are constantly ensuring our Viking standards exceed the expectations not only of travel agents but also their clients."
Viking River Cruises received similar recognition from the trade this past year when they were named "Best Overall Cruise Line for River Cruising" by Travel Age West, as well as being named the #1 River Cruise Line by Recommend, a key monthly trade publication. The company was also honored by consumers this past August when it received Travel + Leisure’s "World’s Best" Awards; and in November with a listing on Condé Nast Traveler’s "Reader’s Choice" Awards; CruiseReport.com named Viking "Best River Cruise Line" as well.
About Viking River Cruises
Viking River Cruises, the world leader in river cruising, offers quality service, gourmet cuisine and comfortable scenic cruising along Europe, Russia and China’s majestic rivers. The company has been honored multiple times on Condé Nast Traveler’s "Gold List" and Travel & Leisure’s "World’s Best" Awards. Travel agents have recognized Viking River Cruises as "Best Overall Cruise Line for River Cruising" (TravelAge West); "Best Cruise Line – River Cruise" (Recommend), and "Best River Cruise Line" by Travel Weekly. Additionally, the company was named "Best River Cruise" twice by CruiseReport.com. Since its 1997 inception, the company has grown to a fleet of 21 vessels, and provides a unique, affordable vacation to experienced travelers with an interest in geography, culture and history. For additional information, contact Viking River Cruises at 1-877-66VIKING (1-877-668-4546) toll-free or visit the company online at vikingrivercruises.com

VIKING RIVER CRUISES NAMED TO CONDE NAST TRAVELER GOLD LIST

2007-01-31T08:51:00.000-08:00

VIKING RIVER CRUISES NAMED TO

CONDE NAST TRAVELER GOLD LIST
Cruise line recognized for excellence among cruise ships
LOS ANGELES (January 15, 2007) - Viking River Cruises, the world leader in river cruising, announced today its recognition by Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List, as featured in the January 2007 issue of the magazine. Unique among travel “best of” lists, the Gold List is one of only two major lists based entirely upon consumer recommendations.
In naming a travel company to the Gold List, Condé Nast Traveler reevaluates the rankings given to the magazine’s annual “Readers’ Choice” issue based upon more general categories and asks readers to give specific commentary about each of the nominees. Viking River Cruises, which was on the “Best Small Ship Cruise Lines” in the November 2006 “Readers’ Choice” issue, was one of only three river cruise companies to be promoted this year.
“Recognition as part of the Gold List is a great honor,” says Torstein Hagen, Founding Chairman of Viking River Cruises. “It is the ultimate endorsement by travelers in the know – and although it has gained much attention in the past few years, river cruising is still a specialized niche. It’s extremely gratifying to see that the quality of our product is competitive with even the best ocean cruise lines.”
Viking River Cruises, the world's leading river cruise line®, offers quality service, gourmet cuisine and comfortable scenic cruising along Europe, Russia and China’s majestic rivers. The company has been honored multiple times as the top river cruise line on Condé Nast Traveler’s "Gold List" and Travel & Leisure’s "World’s Best" Awards. Travel agents have also recognized Viking River Cruises in 2006 as "Best Overall Cruise Line for River Cruising" by TravelAge West and "Best Cruise Line: River Cruise" by Recommend and Travel Agent magazines. Since its 1997 inception, the company has grown to a fleet of 21 vessels, and provides a unique, premium vacation to experienced travelers with an interest in geography, culture and history. For additional information, contact Viking River Cruises at 1-877-66VIKING (1-877-668-4546) toll-free or visit the company online at vikingrivercruises.com

Discover The Yangtze aboard Viking

2007-01-20T23:40:00.000-08:00

The 3rd annual Metering, Billing/CRM Middle East 2006

2006-11-18T03:55:00.000-08:00

Yangtze Cruising Goes Five Stars!

2006-10-22T06:09:00.000-07:00

Nicolas C. Solari, Hotel General Manager, receives Five Stars recognition from China National Tourism Association for the newest addition of Viking River Cruises in China, the beautiful Viking Century Sky.

With his crew of 156 all dedicated to excellence Nicolas Solari has brought the cruising experience in China to the highest international standards.
Custom built to Viking River Cruises specifications this Luxurious cruise ship is the newest and best ship sailing China’s Yangtze River.

About Nicolas C. Solari:
Nicolas is an accomplished hotelier from Lausanne, Switzerland. He has been now in China since 1999 and is active member of E.C.H.M.E.C (Europe-China Hotel Management Experts Council).

Part of the team who received the first Five stars recognition for Deluxe Resort in China, the Gloria Resort Yalong Bay, he than opened the Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Sanya Bay, in Hainan, contributing to the development of this now popular beach destination.

Nicolas joined the Viking River Cruises Sino-Swiss joint venture since the first year in China, and it is now the third time that he is proudly holding the five stars board, after receiving it last year for VRC first ship, the Viking Century Star.
http://nicolas-solari.blogspot.com/

About Viking River Cruises:
The world’s largest river cruise line, Viking River Cruises was established by a Scandinavian and Dutch consortium experienced in cruising.

Viking River Cruises, the world leader in river cruising, offers quality service, gourmet cuisine and comfortable scenic cruising along Europe, Russia and China’s majestic rivers. The company is a multiple-time winner of Condé Nast Traveler’s “Gold List” Award and Travel & Leisure’s “World’s Best” Awards.
TravelAge West’s travel agent readers also recently recognized Viking River Cruises with the 2006 “WAVE” Award for “Best Overall Cruise Line for River Cruising.” Additionally, Viking River Cruises was named “Best River Cruise” by CruiseReport.com.

With 25 ships, Viking River Cruises continues to expand to new destinations, and builds innovative vessels that provide all the comfort of a fine deluxe hotel with attentive Swiss management.
http://www.vikingrivercruises.com

VIKING RIVER CRUISES RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE BY

2006-10-21T05:49:00.000-07:00

Viking River Cruises Named Best River Cruise Line by Recommend Magazine, CruiseReport.com.
LOS ANGELES (October 23, 2006) – Viking River Cruises was honored by readers of Recommend magazine readers as the “Best Cruise Line – River Cruise” in their “10th Annual ‘Readers’ Choice Awards’” for Viking River Cruises commitment to excellence. More than 1,500 travel agents weighed in on their favorite destination, airline, cruise line, rental car company and more.

“We are very pleased to be chosen by Recommend readers as the ‘Best River Cruise Line’,” said Torstein Hagen, Founding Chairman, Viking River Cruises. “It is gratifying to know that Recommend magazine readers see us not only as the category innovator and leader, but also as their top choice for river cruising. We are constantly listening to feedback from the agent community, and striving to build the best reservations center, best onboard product, and best service – both for agents and consumers.”

In addition to the Recommend “Readers’ Choice Award,” Viking River Cruises was recently recognized for the second year in a row by travel website CruiseReport.com as “The Best River Cruise Line.” The website notes that, “Viking River Cruises is not only the largest river cruise company in the world, but in our opinion, they are the best. River cruising is all about getting up-close and personal with the destination and Viking River Cruises staff does an excellent job of immersing its guests into the local culture of the regions to which they sail.”

"I am very proud to work and contibute to the success and expansion of a true world leader in its field" said Nicolas C. Solari, Hotel General Manager of the MS Viking Century SKY, in China.

Funf-Sterne-Kreuzer getauft - Viking Century Sky ist das lngste und exklusivste Schiff auf dem Jangtse

2006-10-09T23:42:00.000-07:00

Westlicher Hotelstandard

Chongqing/Köln - Nach einer Bauzeit von nur acht Monaten wurde jetzt das zweite Jangtse-Schiff unter der Flagge von Viking River Cruises getauft. Die Viking Century Sky ist mit 126,80 Meter der längste Kabinenkreuzer auf dem chinesischen Strom. Seinen ersten Passagier-einsatz fährt der Neubau Mitte März auf der Drei-Schluchten-Strecke von Chongqing nach Yichang.

Mit der Viking Century Sky hält ein neuer Schiffstyp auf dem Jangtse Einzug. Das luxuriös ausgestattete Schiff präsentiert sich als einziges in durchgängig westlichem Hotelstandard. Auf fünf Decks bieten 153 geräumige Außenkabinen mit Balkon bis zu 306 Passagieren Platz. Mit stolzen 18 qm verfügt bereits die "kleinste" Außenkabine über großzügigen Bewegungsfreiraum. Zwei Lifte lassen die Gäste lästiges Treppensteigen vergessen.

Gebaut wurde die Viking Century Sky in Kooperation zwischen Viking River Cruises und dem chinesischen Partner New Century Cruises. Hierbei übernahm der Weltmarkführer im Bereich Flusskreuzfahrten nicht nur die technische Bauaufsicht, sondern war über die norwegischen Schiffsarchitekten

Yran & Storbraaten auch maßgeblich an der architektonischen Planung beteiligt. Somit entstand im fernen China unter westlicher Leitung und mit westlichem Know-how ein Schiff der neuen Generation.

"Wir sind stolz darauf, mit der Viking Century Sky unseren Gästen das Beste anbieten zu können, was auf dem Jangtse zu haben ist", freut sich und Torstein Hagen, Chairman von Viking River Cruises, über das neue Flaggschiff des Unternehmens im Reich der Mitte. Gegenüber anderen Anbietern habe man mit dem Bau des neuen Schiffstyps wiederum einen klaren Wettbewerbsvorteil geschaffen. 2006 wird ein Schwesterschiff, die Viking Century Sun, folgen und Viking River Cruises dann mit nunmehr drei Fünf-Sterne-Kreuzern in China unterwegs sein.

Viking Century Sky received the coveted five-star rating from the China National Tourist Administration

2006-10-09T20:04:00.000-07:00

Viking Century Sky Ship Receives Five-Star Rating

2006-10-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- China is quickly becoming the world's number one tourist destination, and Viking River Cruises all-inclusive cruisetours allow travelers to explore China's top landmarks and become immersed in her diverse cultures through land tours combined with a Yangtze River cruise. Now, for a limited time, passengers can receive roundtrip international air from just $199 when booking a cruisetour on select 2007 dates.
ADVERTISEMENT

Passengers can travel on a 5-star ship

When traveling to China with Viking River Cruises, passengers are escorted every step of the way by Viking River Cruises own experienced English-speaking guides who help passengers make the most of their vacation. On the Yangtze cruise portion of the trip, passengers travel aboard Viking River Cruises deluxe, 306-passenger all-balcony ships, Viking Century Sky or Viking Century Sun. Recently, Sky received the coveted five-star rating from the China National Tourist Administration. Ratings are based on the quality of facilities and amenities, and a ship must be in service at least one year prior to getting rated. Sky is one of the few to receive this rating on the Yangtze, the highest rating possible (Sun has not been in service long enough to be rated).

Key to the high rating is the fact that Viking Century Sky was custom-built under Viking River Cruises supervision; includes a full Western kitchen serving gourmet Western meals and Chinese menus designed by Martin Yan; and boasts four European onboard managers to oversee customer service and quality. Each cabin is equipped with a phone, color television, private bathroom and shower, hotel-style beds, and climate control. The ship also includes a restaurant, observation lounge and bar, coffee bar, sauna, business center, internet cafe, sun deck, shop, and laundry service. A doctor, massage services, and beauty salon are also available onboard. In addition, the company is the only one with an exclusive private picnic area in the Lesser Three Gorges, and hires and supervises over 40 tour escorts dedicated to escorting passengers throughout their journey, including pre-check-in for hotels, baggage handling, and intra-China flights.

"We created our China cruisetours to provide passengers with the very best experience both on land and the river, so it is an honor to receive the five-star rating for Viking Century Sky," said Torstein Hagen, Founding Chairman, Viking River Cruises. "To celebrate, and because we know that many travelers are planning their 2007 vacations now, we wanted to make this once-in a lifetime destination even more accessible with our special air fares."

Air Discount Details: flights from $199

China's Cultural Delights

Roundtrip airfare to China is available from $199 on the 15-night China's Cultural Delights itinerary, which features three nights in Beijing, one night in Xian, a nine-night Yangtze cruise from Chongqing to Nanjing, and two nights in Shanghai. Passengers must mention offer "01P" to get discounted air.

Imperial Jewels of China

Roundtrip airfare is available from $399 on the nine- or 10-night Imperial Jewels of China itinerary, which features two nights in Shanghai, a three- or four-night Yangtze cruise from the Three Gorges Dam to Chongqing (or the reverse), one night in Xian, and three nights in Beijing. Passengers must mention offer "08P" to get discounted air.

Additional Details and Restrictions

Offers are valid on 2007 June, July and August departures only. $199 and $399 special airfare rates are valid on departures from Los Angeles, San Francisco or Seattle only. For departures from Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Las Vegas, Miami, Minneapolis, Newark, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Portland, Salt Lake City, St. Louis, Tampa or Washington D.C., add $100 per person. Flights from other gateways cities or upgrades to business class are available for an additional cost.

This special offer expires December 18, 2006, and is valid on new bookings only as of October 9, 2006. Must be paid in full at time of booking, not combinable with any other offer except Past Passenger Discount; applicable to groups. All prices are per person, double occupancy and include port charges. Limited singles are available; please call 1-877-668-4546 for pricing. Airfare purchased from Viking River Cruises does not include air taxes/fees of $320, and special air rates are non-commissionable. Transfers are included in air price; if air is purchased independently, transfers may be purchased when available and price will be quoted at time of booking. Normal cancellation policy applies; see Terms and Conditions in the 2007 brochure or on the website for details. Viking River Cruises reserves the right to correct or revise any pricing or date errors throughout the season. For more information about this special promotion, please go to www.chinaoffers.vikingrivercruises.com

About Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises, the world leader in river cruising, offers quality service, gourmet cuisine and comfortable scenic cruising along Europe, Russia and China's majestic rivers. The company is a multiple-time winner of Conde Nast Traveler's "Gold List" Award and Travel & Leisure's "World's Best" Awards. TravelAge West's travel agent readers also recently recognized Viking River Cruises with the 2006 "WAVE" Award for "Best Overall Cruise Line for River Cruising." Additionally, Viking River Cruises was named "Best River Cruise" by CruiseReport.com. Since its 1997 inception, the company has grown to a fleet of 23 vessels, and provides a unique, affordable vacation to experienced travelers with an interest in geography, culture and history. For additional information, contact Viking River Cruises at 1-877-66VIKING (1-877-668-4546) toll-free or visit the company online at vikingrivercruises.com.

Viking Century Sun wins Viking Century Sky 3-2

2006-09-16T04:59:00.000-07:00

Football Chinese League Derby

On September 15th the two Beautiful ships lie together in Fengdu for the last time this season.

On this occasion the
Hotel General Managers, Mr. Nicolas C. Solari (SKY) and Mr. Stefan Bush (SUN)
organized a friendly football game match.

They meet in the Fengdu Stadium and the firecrackers were burning as the two teams enter the field.

VIKING CENTURY SKY TEAM
梁凯 Nill
易曦 Wishon
何佳铭Jimmy
甄勇 Terry
文毅 Henry
段照卫Rock
李立 Leo
扈维飞Huweifei
谢生祥Matt
雷强 Paul
罗金兴Edie
田永学tianyongxue
周祖兵zhuozhubing
Olaf
Thomas
Eugenn
Zolten
代勇 Paul
何阳 Mgr. Snow Jade cave
cheerleader:sky 张国发

Referee:郝绍春

VIKING CENTURY SUN TEAM

张定Joe
张文亮LEO
张影Jacky
徐华Eddie
周敬Peter
何伟hewei
叶渝江yeyujiang
胡星伟huxinwei
李秋华Lear
况睿Jeff
吕光全Doctor
严立Master
陈伟David
唐伟Darriel
Stephen
Aleksey
Joachim
Stephan
cheerleader:sun 张国富
After few minutes on the first offensive part of the game the first goal was scored for the SUN team as the unfortunate Executive Chef Olaf left the ball slip in his own net.

The second Goal came from the Asst. hotel mgr. of the SUN David close to the end of the first half.

Cheerleaders from both sides enjoyed so far and although the Sky team did a very good impression, did not concretize the opportunities.

The second half started and under the cheering of the SKY staff, Terry bartender on the SKY scores a superb goal.

Few minutes later it was the turn of Paul, usually working hard on the stove of the Sky’s Galley, to give frenzy to the supporter, at 2-2 everything is still possible.

Unfortunately the braves of the SKY had to bear a disappointment as again David on the last minutes scored the Victory for the SUN.
The game was monitored by the referee 郝绍春 mate on the SKY and was kept on fair play spirit.

It was a fun day and we all wait next season for a revenge match.

Viking Newsletter No 6 / 2006 Deutsch

2006-09-08T19:23:00.000-07:00

Viking-Newsletter 6/2006

Liebe Vikinger

Wir freuen uns über die zahl- und erfolgreichen Verkaufsaktionen, welche auf vielen Schiffen bereits durchgeführt werden oder in nächster Zeit noch umgesetzt werden. Wir lesen immer wieder über tolle Aktionen und innovative Ideen. Herzliche Gratulation!

Auch in diesem Newsletter finden Sie wieder die ein oder andere originelle Verkaufsaktion.

Die Umsetzung und Durchführung ist nur dank Ihres Einsatzes möglich und dafür möchten wir uns ganz herzlich bedanken.

Sie halten die 6. Ausgabe des Newsletters in den Händen. Wir wünschen Ihnen viel Spass damit!

Ihre Redaktion

Erfolgreiches Cross Selling

Während der Schulung in Köln am Anfang dieser Saison wurden die meisten von Ihnen mit dem Cross Selling Konzept vertraut gemacht, welches wir auf allen Schiffen einzuführen planen. Viele der besten Ideen für die Vorstellung von weiteren Viking Kreuzfahrten stammen von den Schiffen, und die Reaktion der Passagier war überwiegend positiv: die Leute besuchen die Vorträge und obwohl sich nicht viele dazu überreden lassen, auf der Stelle zu buchen, glauben wir fest daran, dass die meisten unserer Gäste die Vorstellung mit Ideen für künftige Urlaube verlassen. In der Tat unterscheidet sich das Cross Selling nicht gravierend von unserem normalen Marketing: es bedarf einiges an Schriftverkehr, bevor sich potentielle Kunden entscheiden, zu buchen, und oft ist es nicht leicht, die Ergebnisse der Anstrengungen zu messen, da es einige Zeit dauert, bis dass sich die Leute entschieden haben. Wir fanden heraus, dass für viele Leute eine Buchung während sie noch in Urlaub sind, einfach verfrüht ist.
Trotzdem konnten wir bis jetzt durch das Cross Selling mehr als 80 Passagiere verbuchen, was einem Umsatz von etwa 300,000 Dollar entspricht. Herzlichen Glückwunsch an alle, die uns zu diesem Resultat verholfen haben! Diese Zahlen bestätigen, dass ein Verkaufspotential gegeben ist, und wir werden mit Ihnen zusammen unsere Anstrengungen verdoppeln, um im Jahre 2007 noch bessere Ergebnisse zu erzielen. An alle, die dabei geholfen haben, unseren Gästen unsere anderen Kreuzfahrten zu präsentieren: Sie werden aufgefordert, Ihre Ansichten, Kommentare und Vorschläge mit Ihren Operation Managern zu teilen und wir werden Ihre Feststellungen Anfang Oktober in unserer Verkaufsstelle in Woodland Hills (und zu einem späteren Termin in unserem Verkaufsbüro in Köln) besprechen, um dort Verbesserungen einzuführen, wo es unserer Meinung nach vielleicht etwas bringt. Inzwischen sei soviel gesagt: Sie sorgen für hochwertige Unterhaltung, Sie säen die Saat für künftige Buchungen und in mindestens 81 Fällen haben Sie den Deal tatsächlich abgeschlossen. Ihnen allen herzlichen Dank!

Eine besondere Auszeichnung

Bereits zum 2. Mal durften wir in China eine besondere Auszeichnung für eines unserer Schiffe entgegennehmen. Nach der Viking Century Star im Jahre 2004, wurde in diesem Jahr die Viking Cenury Sky mit dem 5 Sterne Prädikat vom chinesischen Tourismusbüro ausgezeichnet.

Diese Auszeichnung kann ein Hotelbetrieb oder wie in unserem Falle ein Schiff frühestens nach 1 Jahr Betrieb erhalten.

Wir freuen uns über diese Anerkennung und bedanken uns bei allen Beteiligten für ihren grossen Einsatz.

Ein neuer Markt: Ägypten

Neben China gibt es jetzt eine weitere exotische Destination, und zwar Ägypten. Ab dem 4. Oktober wird die 11-tägige Reise „Im Land der Pharaonen“ angeboten. Insgesamt wird diese Tour 49 Mal in der Saison 2006/2007 stattfinden. Was beinhaltet die Reise „Im Land der Pharaonen“? Zuerst geht es nach Kairo, wo man drei Tage im wunderbaren Hotel Conrad untergebracht sein wird. Während der Ausflüge werden unseren Gäste viele Höhenpunkte der ägyptischen Kultur gezeigt, wie das Ägyptische Museum mit der einzigartigen Tut-ench-Amun- Ausstellung, die Pyramiden von Gizeh, Memphis – die erste Hauptstadt der vereinigten Reiche Ober- und Unterägyptens, die Zitadelle mit der Alabastermoschee um nur einige zu nennen.
Shopping darf selbstverständlich auch nicht fehlen und dafür werden die Gäste einen der bekanntesten Basare im Herzen von Alt-Kairo besuchen, den Khan-el- Kalilli-Basar. Am 4. Tag der Reise geht es dann per Flugzeug nach Luxor, wo die Gäste die Reise an Bord des Flussschiffes Mövenpick M/S Royal Lotus fortsetzen werden. Viking River Cruises hat sich entschieden mit dem renommierten Partner Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts zusammenzuarbeiten. Neben Hotels & Resorts betreibt Mövenpick ebenfalls Nil-Kreuzfahrtschiffe, die zu den modernsten in Ägypten gehören. Wie Viking Flusskreuzfahrten steht auch Mövenpick für professionelle Schweizer Gastlichkeit.

An Bord der Mövenpick M/S Royal Lotus hat Viking River Cruises ein Kontingent an Kabinen gebucht und im Land der Pharaonen sind unsere Gäste mit unserem Partner Mövenpick in den besten Händen. Erstklassiger Service und Komfort sind selbstverständlich, wie man es von Viking River Cruises gewöhnt ist.

Während der achttägigen Nil-Kreuzfahrt, die die Strecke Luxor- Assuan- Luxor beinhaltet, werden unsere Gäste bestens von einem Escort/Reiseleiter unseres Partners Cosmos Tours betreut. Diese Damen und Herren werden die Gäste vom Anfang bis zum Ende der Reise begleiten, und primär auch als Guide tätig sein. Höhepunkte auf der Reise sind sicherlich die Tempel in Luxor, Edfu und Esna, das Tal der Könige in Luxor sowie die Stadt Assuan, die sonnigste und südlichste Stadt Ägyptens. Assuan ist auch bekannt als Drehkulisse für den bekannten Film „Tod auf dem Nil“ – von Agatha Christie. Ein weiterer Höhepunkt dürfte sicherlich der fakultative Ausflug nach Abu Simbel sein. Hier erwarten die Gäste mit dem Felsentempel des zweiten Ramses und seiner Gemahlin Nefertari wahrhaft monumentale Heiligtümer.

Am Ende der Reise hat der Gast noch die Möglichkeit, einen all-inclusive Verlängerungsaufenthalt im Resort Mövenpick El Quseir am Roten Meer zu buchen 5 Tage Badefreuden dürften doch die „Strapazen“ (Hitze, früh beginnende Ausflüge) schnell vergessen lassen. Wer auf die Badeverlängerung verzichtet, wird ab Luxor die Heimreise antreten.

Mitarbeiter

Ganz besonders gratulieren möchten wir jenen Mitarbeitern, die wir aufgrund Ihrer guten Leistungen befördern konnten:

Jay (杨威) Kelnner zu Chef de Service fur Die Restaurant CSKY
Joy (李颖) Rezeptionist zu Chef de Rezeption CSKY
Angel (张红梅) Shop Assistäntin zu Rezeptionist CSKY
Vivian (毛静) Cabin Stewardess zu Shop Assistäntin CSKY

Expedienten zu Gast auf der Viking Star

Auf der Reise vom 23. – 30. Juli mit der Viking Star waren insgesamt 25 Reisebüro-Mitarbeiterinnen und –Mitarbeiter unserer Einladung zu einer Expedienten-Gruppenreise gefolgt. Die eine Hälfte der Expedienten war von Passau bis Budapest mit von der Partie und wurde von Monia-Nada Steffen, unserer für die Region Nord/Ost zuständigen Außendienst-Kollegin, betreut. Die andere Hälfte der Gäste war von Budapest zurück nach Passau mit dabei; für ihre Begleitung war Anna Gurris, unsere für die Region West zuständige Außendienst-Kollegin, verantwortlich. So brauchen wir nur die halbe Anzahl an Kabinen zu blocken; für einen ersten umfangreichen Eindruck unserer Leistungsqualität reichen ja zudem zunächst 3 – 4 Tage Verwöhn-Aufenthalt bei uns an Bord aus.

Wir planen für die Zukunft weitere Expedienten-Gruppenreisen, denn bei solchen Fahrten können wir den Reisebüro-Mitarbeitern hautnah demonstrieren, was Viking Flusskreuzfahrten von anderen Flusskreuzfahrt-Anbietern unterscheidet und warum Viking Flusskreuzfahrten als einziger Veranstalter eine Service-Garantie ausloben kann. Ganz nebenbei können wir auch mit Vorbehalten gegenüber Flusskreuzfahrten aufräumen: Seekrank zum Beispiel kann man auf dem Fluss nicht werden, und der riesige Vorteil, trotz täglichen Unterwegsseins nur einmal die Koffer aus- und einpacken zu müssen – nämlich zu Beginn und am Ende der Reise –, überzeugt einfach jeden, der es einmal ausprobiert hat. Die nächste Expedienten-Gruppenreise soll noch im Herbst dieses Jahres an Bord der Viking Century Sky stattfinden.

Ein herzlicher Dank an alle, insbesondere an das Team der Viking Star, die zum Erfolg der Expedienten-Gruppenreise beigetragen haben!

Geburstag am Viking Century SKY

Die Junge Sophia, der Hotel General Manager Nicolas C. Solari Töchter kommt am bord für ihre erste Geburstag!

Wir wünschen der junge Familie Solari nochmals alles Liebe und Gute zur Vermählung und möge ihre Zukunft genauso glanzvoll und traumhaft schön sein wie ihre Töchter!

Wussten Sie, dass man bei Grünem Tee in China eine „Zeremonie“ feiert?

Tee reinigt die Seele und macht den Geist frei...; Tee trinken und – den Alltagsstress vergessen, heisst es in vielen Fachbüchern und Literatur über den Grünen Tee.

In der Chinesischen Naturheilkunde weiss man schon seit langem um die positiven Wirkungen des grünen Tees auf unsere Gesundheit. Die Resultate sind erstaunlich. Grüner Tee beugt Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen und der Entstehung bösartiger Tumoren vor, schützt vor Viren und Bakterien und ist gut für unsere Verdauung. Durch seine heilende Wirkung sowie wertvolle Inhaltstoffe ( Z. B. Alkaloide, Saponine) und Vitamine (B1, B2, Biotin, Vitamin K), ist das Lieblingsgetränk der Chinesen auch bei uns in Europa sehr populär geworden.

Die chinesische Teezeremonie:

Für die japanischen und chinesischen Mönche war das Teetrinken schon immer eine heilige Handlung, eine feierliche Zeremonie. Sie haben den Genuss dieses Getränks zur Kultur entwickelt.
Eine der bekanntesten Teezeremonien ist die Jihn-Shan-Zeremonie im Jing-Berg-Tempel in der Provinz Zhe-jiang. Um die Gäste zu ehren, zelebriert den Ritus der Abt selbst. Alle Anwesenden bekommen zuerst eine Schale Tee, die wird aber nicht gleich getrunken. Zuerst wird die Deckeltasse geöffnet, um den Duft des Tees zu geniessen, dann wird die Farbe begutachtet und erst dann nimmt man den Tee in kleinen Schlucken zu sich.
Erst nach der dritten Schale Tee beginnt man zu diskutieren, den Tee zu klassifizieren, den Abt als Teemeister zu loben und über religiöse und philosophische Fragen Meinung und Erfahrung auszutauschen. Danach kann man auch über Themen wie Freundschaf und Alltag diskutieren.
Beim Teetrinken achtet man immer auf das Ambiente. Der Teeraum soll nicht so gross sein, dafür soll er sehr geschmackvoll eingerichtet. Den Tee geniesst man in aller Ruhe, gelassen und entspannt. So wird der Alltag vergessen und eine ganz neue, nie gekannte Sensibilität für das feine Aroma des grünen Tee entwickelt.

Zu den dazugehörigen Utensilien gehören Teedose, Teekanne, Teeschiff, Mischkanne, Bambusschaufel, Bambuslöffel, Teetuch, Trinkschalen

Will man eine festliche Teestunde geniessen, sollte man einen Tisch vorbereiten, an dem alle Gäste bequem sitzen können

Zuerst wärmt man die Teekanne mit heissem Wasser vor. Dieses Wasser wird dann in die Mischkanne geschüttet.
Man füllt mit Bambusschaufel und Bambuslöffel die Teeblätter in die Teekanne. Dabei wird den Gästen die Teesorte kurz erläutert.
Die Trinkschalen werden mit dem heissen Wasser aus der Mischkanne vorgewärmt.
Die Teekanne mit Teeblättern wird zur Hälfte mit heissem Wasser gefüllt, dieses giesst man aber sofort in die Mischkanne ab. Das bezeichnet man als „Teeblätter anwärmen“. (wird nur bei den Sorten vom Grünen Tee durchgeführt, die eine hohe Temperaturen gut vertrage können – z, B. Oolongs)
Nun giesst man Wasser mit der erforderlichen Temperatur(ca. 75 bis 80 Grad Celsius) in die Teekanne, schliesst den Deckel und stellt die Zeituhr.(Bei wertvollen Sorten max. 3 bis 5 Minuten ziehen lassen. Diese wirken dann stark und sind sehr aufregend).
Sobald die Uhr abgelaufen ist, wird der Tee von der Teekanne in die Mischkanne gegossen.
Aus der Mischkanne wird der Tee in die vorgewärmten zuerst hohen
„ Schnuppertässchen“ gegossen. (kann aber auch direkt in die Trinkschalen gegossen werden)
Die Gäste sollen zuerst den Duft des Tees geniessen und ihn dann in die Trinkschalen umgiessen und in kleinen Schlucken kosten.

Man kann seinen Gästen ruhig eines der feuchten, aufgegossenen Teeblätter zum Kauen geben. Bei einem guten Tee haben auch diese Blätter ein edles Aroma, woran man die gute Qualität des Tees erkennen kann.

Diese Zeremonie wird im Rahmen eines Onboard Events auf unseren chinesischen Schiffen von Mitarbeiterinnen vorgeführt. Wir wünschen Ihnen viel Spass dabei….

Viking Newsletter No 6 / 2006

2006-09-06T19:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Vikings,
We are pleased about the numerous and successful sales campaigns that have already been carried out on many ships or will be implemented soon. Time and again, we read about great campaigns and innovative ideas. Congratulations!

You will also find the one or the other examples of inventive sales campaigns in this newsletter as well.

The implementation and realization is only possible due to your efforts, and we would like to sincerely thank you for this.

You have the 6th edition of the newsletter in your hands. We hope you enjoy reading it!

Your Editorial Department

Cross-selling a success

During the training in Cologne at the beginning of this season, most of you were introduced to the concept of cross-selling as we planned to introduce this on all ships. Many of the best ideas for presentations of other Viking cruises came from the ships, and passenger feedback has been overwhelmingly positive: people attend the presentations, and although not a great many are persuaded to book on the spot, we do believe that most of our guests come away with some ideas for future vacations. In fact, in this respect cross-selling is not that different from our normal marketing: it takes quite a few mail pieces before potential customers decide to book, and often, it is not that easy to measure the results of your efforts, as it may take a while before people make up their minds. We are finding that for many people, booking while they are still on vacation is simply too early.

Nevertheless, we so far have booked more than 80 passengers through cross-selling, which translates to some 300,000 dollars in sales. Congratulations to all of you who have helped getting us here ! These numbers confirm that the potential for sales is there, and we will step up our efforts, together with you, to do much better in 2007. Anyone who has helped present our other cruises to our guests: you are invited to share your insights, comments and suggestions with your operations managers and we will discuss your findings early October in our Woodland Hills sales office (and at a later date in our Cologne sales office) to make improvements where we believe it may make a difference. In the meantime: you are providing some quality entertainment, you're sowing seeds for future bookings, and in at least 81 cases, you actually closed the deal. Thank you all very much !

A Special Award

We are honored, to have been presented a special award in China for one of our ships for the 2nd time already. Following the Viking Century Star in the year 2004, the Viking Century Sky was distinguished this year with the 5 Star rating by the Chinese tourism office.

This distinction can only be received at the earliest after 1 year of operation by a hotel business or, as in our case, a ship.

We are pleased about this recognition and would like to thank everyone involved for their great efforts.

A New Market: Egypt

In addition to China, we have now added the exotic destination of Egypt. Beginning on October 4th, the 11-day trip "In the Land of the Pharaohs" will be offered. This tour will take place for a total of 49 times during the 2006-2007 season. What does the trip "In the Land of the Pharaohs" include? The first stop is Cairo, where the guests will be accommodated for three days at the wonderful Hotel Conrad. During the excursions, our guests will be shown many highlights of the Egyptian culture such as the Egyptian Museum with the unique Tut-anch-Amun exhibition, the pyramids of Giza, Memphis (the first capital of the United Kingdom of Upper and Lower Egypt), and the Citadel with the Alabaster Mosque, just to name a few.
Of course, shopping is also important and the guests will visit one of the most famous bazaars in the heart of Old Cairo, the Khan el-Kalili Bazaar. On the 4th day of the trip, a flight is scheduled to Luxor, where the guests will continue the journey on board the river ship Mövenpick M/S Royal. Viking River Cruises has decided to collaborate with the renowned partner Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. In addition to hotels and resorts, Mövenpick also operates Nile cruise ships that are among the most modern in Egypt. Like the Viking river cruises, Mövenpick also represents professional Swiss hospitality.

Viking River Cruises has booked a contingent of cabins on board the Mövenpick M/S Royal Lotus. Our guests are in the best hands in the Land of the Pharaohs with our partner Mövenpick. It goes without saying that our guests will enjoy the same first-class service and comfort to which they are accustomed from the Viking River Cruises.

During the eight-day Nile cruise, which includes the route of Luxor- Aswan - Luxor, our guests will be attended to in the best way by escorts/travel guides from our partner Cosmos Tours. These ladies and gentlemen will accompany the guests from the beginning to the end of the trip and also primarily play the role of guides. The highlights of the trip will certainly be the temple in Luxor, Edfu and Esna, the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, as well as the city of Aswan, which is the sunniest and southernmost city of Egypt. Aswan is also familiar as the film location for the well-known film Death on the Nile – by Agatha Christie. Another highlight is sure to be the optional excursion to Abu Simbel. Truly monumental shines are waiting here for the guests in the form of the rock temple of the second Ramses and his wife Nefertari.

At the end of the trip, the guest also has the possibility of booking an all-inclusive extension stay at the resort Mövenpick El Quseir on the Red Sea. Five days of fun in the water should allow the "strain" (heat, early starting time for excursions) to be quickly forgotten. Anyone who decides to forgo the swimming extension will begin the trip home from Luxor.

Employees

We would like to especially congratulate those employees who we were able to promote on the basis of their good performance and progress in English:

Jay (杨威) Dining Room Waiter to Captain Dining Room CSKY
Joy (李颖) Receptionist to Supervisor Front Office CSKY
Angel (张红梅) From Shop Assistant to Receptionist CSKY
Vivian (毛静) From Housekeeping attendant to Shop assistant CSKY

Travel Agents as Guests of Viking Star

On the trip from July 23 – 30 with the Viking Star, a total of 25 travel-agency employees accepted our invitation to a travel-agent group trip.For an initial comprehensive impression of the quality of our services, it's enough to enjoy a 3 – 4-day pampering stay on board with us.

For the future, we plan further travel-agent group trips because we can demonstrate firsthand what differentiates Viking River Cruises from other river-cruise providers for such trips to the travel-agency employees and why Viking River Cruises is the only organizer that can offer a service guarantee. Quite incidentally, we can also clear away reservations about river cruises: For example, it is not possible to become seasick on the river. Furthermore, there is the tremendous advantage of only having to unpack and pack the suitcase once despite being en route every day – namely, at the beginning and at the end of the trip. These reasons simply convince anyone who has ever tried it. The next travel-agent group trips are planned to take place in the fall of this year on board the Viking Century Sky.

We would like to say a sincere thank-you to everyone, especially the team of the Viking Star, who has contributed to the success of the travel-agent group trips!

Happy First Birthday on Viking Century Sky

Young Sophia came onboard to celebrate her first birthday with her daddy, the Hotel general Manager, Nicolas C. Solari

Once again, we wish the young Solari family all the best for their marriage. May their future be just as brilliantly and fabulously beautiful as their daughter!

Did You Know that People Celebrate a "Ceremony" with Green Tea in China?

Tea cleanses the soul and makes the mind free...; Drink tea and forget the stress of everyday life – is what it says in many specialized books and literature about green tea.

Chinese naturopathy has long known about the positive effects of green tea on our health. The results are astonishing. Green tea prevents cardiovascular diseases and the development of malignant tumors, protects against viruses and bacteria, and is good for our digestion. Because of its healing effect, as well as its valuable ingredients (such as alkaloids, saponins) and vitamins (B1, B2, biotin, vitamin K), the favorite drink of the Chinese has also become very popular with us in Europe.

The Chinese Tea Ceremony:

For Japanese and Chinese monks, drinking tea has always been a sacred act, a solemn ceremony. They have developed the enjoyment of this drink into a culture.
One of the most famous tea ceremonies is the Jihn Shan ceremony in the Jing mountain temple in the province of Zhe-jiang. To honor the guests, the rite is celebrated by the abbot personally. All of those present first receive a cup of tea. However, they do not immediately drink it. The lidded cup is first opened in order to enjoy the fragrance of the tea, then the color is assessed, and only then does the person drink the tea in small sips.
People begin to discuss, classify the tea, praise the abbot as the tea master, and exchange opinions and experiences related to religious and philosophical issues only after the third cup of tea.
Afterwards, it's also possible to talk about topics such as friendship and everyday life.
When drinking tea, it is always important to pay attention to the ambience. The tea room should not be too large but always very tastefully decorated. The tea should be enjoyed in a very tranquil, serene, and relaxed way. This makes it possible to forget everyday life and develop a completely new, previously unknown sensitivity for the fine aroma of the green tea.

The appropriate utensils include the tea caddy, teapot, tea ship, mixing pot, bamboo scoop, bamboo spoon, tea towel, and drinking cups

If you would like to enjoy a festive tea hour, begin by preparing a table at which all the guests can sit comfortably

First pre-warm the teapot with hot water. Then pour this water into the mixing pot.
Use the bamboo scoop and bamboo spoon to fill the tea leaves into the teapot. As you do so, briefly explain the types of teas to the guests.
Pre-warm the drinking cups with the hot water from the mixing pot.
The teapot with tea leaves is filled halfway with hot water, which is immediately poured into the mixing pot. This is called "warming the tea leaves" (which is only done with the varieties of green tea that are very tolerant of high temperatures – such as Oolongs)
Now pour water at the required temperature (approx. 75 to 80 degrees Celsius) into the teapot, close the lid, and set the timer. (Let valuable varieties stand for a max. of 3 to 5 minutes. This will have a strong effect and be very stimulating).
As soon as the timer goes off, pour the tea from the teapot into the mixing pot.
From the mixing pot, first pour the tea into pre-warmed high "tasting cups" (but it can also be poured directly into the drinking cups).
The guests should first enjoy the fragrance of the tea and then pour it into the drinking cups and savor it in small sips.

It's also acceptable to give your guests the moist, brewed tea leaves to chew. When the tea is good, these leaves also have a fine aroma, which makes it possible to recognize the high quality of the tea.

This ceremony is carried out within the scope of onboard events on our Chinese ships by our employees. We wish you much enjoyment with it….

Nicolas Solari Invite Staff to celebrate best result of the Viking fleet at mid-season

2006-08-23T17:30:00.000-07:00

Captain log August 22nd, Cruising the mighty water of the Yangtze

Upon receiving the fleet (24 ships) mid-season results:

Viking Century SKY Best Overall Results
Viking Century SKY No1 Guest Satisfaction Ratings
Viking Century SKY Highest Revenue
Viking Century SKY Highest Avg.. Check per guest
Viking Century SKY Best Cross-selling program
Viking Century SKY Best Cabin Upgrade Sales program

!!WOW!!

Well so many good result needed to be celebrated and Hotel General Manager, Nicolas C. Solari decided to Invite his hard working crew for a BBQ.

Location was choosen a Maoping port at the entrance of the famous Three gorges Dam and the chefs (or is it Thomas the cruise mgr.)got the fire running.

Delicious ribs, assorted sausages, spicy chicken wing corn on the cob and others salad were on the menu of this festive events.

All the officier helped following the lead of Nicolas Solari (Hotel General Manager).

Lashing of fresh local beer and fruit punch for toasting and the party was a success.

The Celebration for the birthday of the month was held at this occasion hosted by Captain Guo and Hotel Mgr. Nicolas Solari.

Another b’day girl ( Sophia Solari daughter of Hotel GM Nicolas)
can you find her on the picture

After a last toast cleaning was done and by midnight everybody was on board with good memories

VIKING RIVER CRUISES RECOGNIZED AS “WORLD’S BEST” BY TRAVEL + LEISURE MAGAZINE

2006-08-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

Leading River Cruise Line Named “Top 10”

LOS ANGELES (August 1, 2006) – For the third consecutive year, Viking River Cruises was honored by readers of top travel publication Travel + Leisure as one of the “Top 10 Small Ship Cruise Lines” in their 11th annual “World’s Best Awards.” Travel + Leisure magazine’s annual “World’s Best Awards” allows its readers to provide insights on their favorite cities, hotels and cruise lines

“We are extremely honored to be included on the 2006 list, and for the past three years,” said Torstein Hagen, Founding Chairman, Viking River Cruises. “As the world’s largest river cruise line, we provide our passengers with diverse and in-depth experiences on the majestic rivers of Europe, Russia and China. Our inclusion on the list indicates that we’re doing something right …and we’re committed to continuing to surpass our customers’ expectations.”

2007 European Offerings

Viking River Cruises offers 14 different itineraries in 2007 ranging from seven to 14 nights along the Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Saône, Rhône, and Elbe Rivers, plus Russia’s Waterways of the Czars and Ukraine’s Dnieper River. Various itineraries highlight Amsterdam, Vienna, Paris, Budapest, Berlin, Prague plus quaint small European towns and villages along the rivers. All feature included tours with English-speaking guides, non-smoking shipboard environments, gourmet food, and an English-speaking crew.

2007 China Offerings

Viking Century Sun and Viking Century Sky, 5-star sister ships each carrying 306 passengers, are the newest and most deluxe ships on the Yangtze River. Viking River Cruises offers three different China cruisetour itineraries, each including a Yangtze River cruise plus overnight five-star hotel stays in Beijing, Xian (home of the Terra Cotta Warriors) and cosmopolitan Shanghai.

From favorite cities and islands to favorite domestic airlines and car-rental agencies, Travel + Leisure uncovers the best in travel. For each category in the “World’s Best Awards,” readers weighed in on their travel experiences and provided feedback in a number of areas. Cruise lines in particular are rated on cabins, food, service, itineraries/destinations, activities, and value. Cruise lines are also divided into two categories based on passenger capacity. The majority of small cruise lines have a maximum capacity of 400 per ship. Viking River Cruises falls into this category, with a typical passenger capacity of 150 passengers in an intimate, comfortable setting.

“The World’s Best” list appears in the August issue of Travel + Leisure, and is also available online at www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest.

About Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises, the world leader in river cruising, offers quality service, gourmet cuisine and comfortable scenic cruising along Europe, Russia and China’s majestic rivers. The company is a multiple-time winner of the Condé Nast Traveler’s “Gold List” Award and Travel & Leisure’s “World’s Best” Awards. TravelAge West’s travel agent readers also recently recognized Viking River Cruises with the 2006 “WAVE” Award for “Best Overall Cruise Line for River Cruising.” Additionally, Viking River Cruises was named “Best River Cruise” by CruiseReport.com. Since its 1997 inception, the company has grown to a fleet of 23 vessels, and provides a unique, affordable vacation to experienced travelers with an interest in geography, culture and history.
For additional information, contact Viking River Cruises at 1-877-66VIKING (1-877-668-4546) toll-free or visit the company online at vikingrivercruises.com

Press releases:

VIKING RIVER CRUISES RECOGNIZED AS WORLD BEST

Viking Newsletter No 5 / 2006

2006-07-06T19:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Vikings,

The 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany has already been a thing of the past for some time now and we can look back at a great and exciting soccer celebration. The next big soccer event will take place in Switzerland and Austria with the 2008 European Championship.

Time passes very quickly and the mid-season has been or is already being celebrated again on our ships.

So now it's high time to present Edition 5/06 to you.

We hope you enjoy looking through it.

Your Editorial Department

Fire on the MS Viking Century SUN

A fire on the MS Viking Century SUN on the Yangtze River caused considerable structural damage in the night of July 2, 2006. The fire broke out in an unoccupied guest cabin on Deck 4 and destroyed three additional cabins. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but may have occurred because of a short circuit.

Through the correct and circumspect actions of the crew, it was possible to prevent more extensive damage. Luckily, no one was harmed by the incident.

Because of the intense smoke generation, Deck 4 is temporarily uninhabitable.

Unfortunately, this incident shows once again that accidents and fires can happen at any time and that correct conduct can save lives.

Award for Viking River Cruises

We are pleased that Viking River Cruises has once again been voted by the readers of the renowned American magazine Travel+Leisure as the 9th on the list of the best small cruise companies. Viking River Cruises is the only cruise company exclusively for rivers that has landed in the top ten list!

You, dear employees, have played a crucial role in this great success and for this we would like to thank you very much!

More…

Margherita Party On the Sundeck of the Viking Century SKY

How to stand the heat of July on the Yangtze River? Nicolas Solari, Hotel General Manager and his Chef barman Hill launched a promotion that delighted the guest during the steamy afternoon on the sundeck.
Here is the offer created for this event: Hum wish we were there…

Margherita Creation & Refreshing Cocktails

Margharita
Tequila, Triple Sec, Lemon Juice
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Strawberry Margharita
Strawberries, Tequila, Triple Sec, Lemon Juice
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Viking Cobbler
Vodka, Grape-Berry Mix
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Caipirinha
White Rum, Limes, Cassonade
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Caipiroska
Vodka, Limes, Cassonade
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Strawberry Daiquiri
White Rum, Fresh Strawberries, Lime Juice
By the Glass RMB48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Banana Daiquiri
White Rum, Banana, Lime Juice, Lemon Juice
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Mango Daiquiri
White Rum, Dark Rum,Mango, Honey,
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Kamikaze
Vodka, Tripk sec, lemon Juice, lime Juice
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

China Tropical
Jian Nan Chun, Lime Juice Litchis
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Oriental Cobbler
Gin, Galliano, Lemon Juice
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Pina-Mohito
White Rum, Mint, Pineapple Juice
By the Glass RMB 48
By the Pitcher RMB 298

Press Trip on the STAR

For the first time, a press trip took place this year on the Viking Star and was accompanied on location during the first four days by Franka Böhme. In addition to five journalists, a photographer was also on board and provided us with much new picture material for the short stretch of the Danube. The journalists participated in the Mozart trip and were offered a comprehensive insight into the life and work of Mozart. In addition to all the culture and history, there was also plenty of time for rest and relaxation in keeping with the Viking motto.

The beautiful, warm summer nights often prompted them to stay on deck with a cocktail and experience both Captain Horvath's steering skills as he maneuvered through the many locks and a full moon that seemed unbelievably close. During the crew show, the focus was primarily on fun. In particular, the ladies responded to hotel manager Patzenhauer's "Udo Jürgens performance" with enthusiastic storms of applause.

At this point, we would like to once again thank the entire crew for taking care of everyone in such a friendly way!

Apprentice Training on Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises Is the Only River Cruise Company that Trains About 13 Sailors (m/f) as Crew Members for Inland Waterways Every Year

Some children dream of becoming train engineers and speeding through the countryside, while others would like to become pilots and soar above it all – and some long to steer a ship and travel at a leisurely pace on the waterways. Viking River Cruises makes the dream of ruling over the helm of a ship true every year for 13 trainees. Since the founding of the company in 1997, Viking River Cruises - the Number One for river cruises – has trained crew members for the inland waterways and is therefore the only river cruise agency in Germany that trains in the nautical area. Viking River Cruises also trains people in France.

The vocational-school students complete the theoretical portion of three years of training during three 13-week teaching units at the Rhine Vocational School for Mariners. The schedule includes subjects such as engine theory, electrical theory, waterway geography, and English. International shipping law is also taught since the training applies to the entire Rhine River basin with the countries of Switzerland, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.

In between the sessions, the students are involved in practical work. Anyone hired by Viking River Cruises is put to work on the company's Rhine, Danube, or Elbe River ships; a total of 23 ships sail for Viking River Cruises on the great waterways of the world. During this time, the students must learn the actual navigation of the river cruise ship. This also includes initially becoming familiar with the traffic regulations and shipping signals in the live situation and putting the contents of the school subject "Waterway Theory" to practical use. In addition to specialized knowledge and many practical tips from their instructor, the ship's captain, they also learn how to plan life on board. Depending on the schedule, they sometimes already have to cast off at 4 a.m. – but people also do not get seasick on board the river cruiser.

Those who are hired by Viking River Cruises can usually reckon with an employment contract after the training. "Up to now, we have taken on all of the trainees as sailors," according to Thomas Bogler, the Vice-President of Nautics at Viking River Cruises. After some practical work experience and for candidates who are at least 21 years old, the vocational development often continues: It is followed by the training as a master mariner – which is generally called "captain" – with a final patent examination.

There are also good prospects for master mariners at Viking River Cruises: "Almost all of our master mariners have already completed their training as master mariners for inland waterways," explains Thomas Bogler. He is certain that "this means we can depend one-hundred percent on our nautical personnel and be certain that we are working with the best sailors and captains in the river cruise industry."

As the only training river-cruise company in Germany for the nautical area, it's a foregone conclusion for Thomas Bogler to become involved on behalf of the younger generation as the Chairman of the Training Ship Commission. In addition to operating the school, Bogler organizes specialized courses such as respiratory-protection or safety courses or even instruction as first-aid assistants, in which trainees from other cruise companies can also participate.

Viking in China - Travel wizard

2006-06-20T23:45:00.000-07:00

Ping Pong Tournament on Viking Century Sky

2006-06-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

Captain Guo and General Hotel Manager Nicolas C. Solari Handing the certificate and the trophy to the winner of the mid-season Ping pong tournament

The Winner and the two runner up

World Economic Forum on the Middle East 2006 held in SHICC (Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Center)

2006-05-31T09:07:00.000-07:00

Leaders gearing up for the World Economic Forum on the Middle East in Egypt
18 May 2006 - Geneva, Switzerland

World Economic Forum on the Middle East will be held in Sharm El Sheikh on 20 to 22 May More than 1,200 government, business and civil society leaders from 46 countries will meet together in pursuit of outcomes to help prepare the way for a more prosperous and peaceful future for the Middle East under the working theme, “The Promise of a New Generation”.
Participants will look at the role of business as the engine of job creation and the need for leaders to work together for peace and stability. “The World Economic Forum on the Middle East comes at a crucial time in the region for so many reasons – but if the future is to be secure both for the Middle East and for the rest of the world, it is to the next generation that we need to deliver. By engaging business, by forging partnerships between the public and private sectors, and by constructive and fruitful dialogue we will contribute to a future where we will be able to realize the promise of a new generation,” said Professor Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum. According to the Egyptian Prime Minister, Ahmed Mahmoud Nazif, “the region is going through a transformation – from economic growth to democratization and human development. This meeting will be a chance to facilitate meaningful dialogue on a wide variety of issues including the global business agenda. Sharm El Sheikh has gained international recognition as a city of peace. We hope that the spirit of the city will prevail as we continue to accelerate the development of our nation economically and politically."

Held with the full support of President Muhammad Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, government representatives from 29 countries will take part. Some of the leading participants are fromBahrain: H.E. Sheikh Mohamed Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, H.E. Sheikh Khalid bin Ahmad Al Khalifa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Sheikh Ahmed M. Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance; Djibouti, Dileita Mohamed Dileita, Prime Minister, Egypt: Suzanne Mubarak, First Lady of Egypt, Ahmed Mahmoud Nazif, Prime Minister, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rachid M. Rachid, Minister of Trade and Industry, Gamal H. Mubarak, Head, Policy Secretariat, National Democratic Party, Amre Moussa, Secretary-General League of Arab States; Iraq: Hoshyar Zebari, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Barham Salih, Minister of Planning and Development Cooperation, Sheikh Humam Hammoudi, President, Constitutional Drafting Council, Mowaffak Al Rubaie, National Security Adviser, National Security Council; Israel: Shimon Peres, Vice-Premier of Israel and Minister for the Development of the Negev and Galilee, Tzipi Livni, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Silvan Shalom, Member of the Knesset, Isaac Herzog, Minister of Construction and Housing; Jordan: Khaled Toukan, Minister of Education and Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Bassem I. Awadallah, Director, Office of His Majesty the King, The Royal Hashemite Court; Kuwait: Sheikha Hissah Saad Al Sabah, President, Council of Arab Business Woman (CABW), H.H. Sheikh Sabah, Minister of Energy, Youssef Al Zalzaleh, Minister of Commerce and Industry; Lebanon: Emile Lahoud, President, Fouad Siniora, Prime Minister, Fawzi Salukh, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants;Malaysia: Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Prime Minister; Malta: Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Michael Frendo, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Morocco: Mustapha Mechahouri, Minister of Foreign Trade, André Azoulay, Counsellor to H.M. the King of Morocco; Pakistan: Shaukat Aziz, Prime Minister; Palestinian Territories: Mahmoud Abbas, President of the Palestinian Authority; Chairman of the Palestinian Liberation Organization Executive Committee; Qatar: H.H. Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar; Chairman, Islamic Conference Organization, H.E. Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jabr Al Thani, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs; Russia: Alexander Saltanov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs; Saudi Arabia: H.R.H. Prince Turki Al Faisal, Chairman, King Faisal Centre for Research and Islamic Studies and Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to the USA; Abdullah Zainal Alireza, Minister of State of Saudi Arabia; Singapore: Zainul Abidin Rasheed, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs; Sudan: Az-Zobeir Ahmed Al Hasan, Minister of Finance and National Economy of Sudan; Tunisia: Mohamed Rachid Kechiche, Minister of Finance; Turkey: Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister, Abdullah Gül, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Babacan, Minister of Economy and Chief Negotiator for the European Union; United Arab Emirates: H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chief of Staff, Untied Arab Emirates Armed Forces, H.H. Sheikh Hamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Department of Economy and Planning, Mohammed Khalfan Bin Khirbash, Minister of State for Finance and Industry, Mohammad Al Gergawi, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Holding; and the USA: Robert B. Zoellick, US Deputy Secretary of State, John W. Snow, US Secretary of the Treasury, and several Senators and Members of Congress. The Co-Chairs of the meeting are: H.R.H. Princess Lolwah Al Faisal, Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees and General Supervisor, Effat College, Saudi Arabia; Mohammed H. Almady, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC), Saudi Arabia; M. Shafik Gabr, Chairman and Managing Director, Artoc Group for Investment & Development, Egypt; Chairman of the Arab Business Council; Stelios Haji-Ioannou, Chairman, easyGroup, United Kingdom; Nemir A. Kirdar, Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer, Investcorp, United Kingdom; and William R. Rhodes, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President, Citicorp Holdings and Citibank, USA. Watch sessions live from the World Economic Forum on the Middle East at: www.weforum.org/middleeast/webcasts (link active from 19 May) For more information about the meeting, visit: General information – http://www.weforum.org/middleeast Programme – www.weforum.org/middleeast/programme Interviews with key participants – www.weforum.org/middleeast/indepth Downloadable photos – http://www.pbase.com/forumweb/middleeast2006 Please note that media accreditation is closed. For accredited media, guidelines and general logistical information for the media can be found at: http://www.weforum.org/middleeast/presskit For pictures of past regional meetings, go to: http://www.pbase.com/forumweb

VIKING EUROPE RANKED AMONG WORLD'S BEST CRUISE SHIPS

2006-05-14T18:19:00.000-07:00

Yangtze River by wikipedia

2006-05-10T02:04:00.000-07:00

The fourth annual meeting for the World Economic Forum (WEF), the first to take place in SHARM EL SHEIKH INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS CENTER (SHICC)

2006-03-28T09:23:00.000-08:00

The fourth annual meeting for the World Economic Forum (WEF) in the Middle East, the first to take place in Egypt, was supposed to be an economic event. However, the WEF in Sharm El-Sheikh proved essentially to be political in nature. The event was described as a success by the participants -- officials and businessmen alike.
Over three consecutive days, around 1,200 participants, political and business leaders as well as representatives of civil society met to chart a better future for the region. In his opening address, President Hosni Mubarak highlighted the importance of confronting one's problems. "The region has to address its conflicts and tensions, including the situation in Iraq, Iran's nuclear programme, tension between Syria and Lebanon, and the Palestinian question," he remarked.
Mubarak stressed that the Palestinian issue would remain "the core concern for peace and stability in the Middle East". The buzz word was "dialogue".
Participants also stressed the need for reform. Under the headline "The promise of a new generation" Egypt had to prove to the world that it can master the industry of international conferences. The conference took place only a month after the triple bombings in Dahab, Sinai. This is a critical point in Egyptian history. A lot of issues are at stake; tense security situation, political reform issues, human rights violations and strained US- Egyptian relations.
Open talk about strained Egyptian- United States relations also featured at the WEF. Discussions were frank and participants other than speakers or moderators felt free to criticise their points of views.
Security was on its highest alert turning the Red Sea resort into a military barracks -- the area surrounding the conference was sealed off from the entire resort. Sharm El-Sheikh residents were certainly relieved to see a peaceful end of the WEF meeting.
Also in attendance were Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa, and the Malaysian, Lebanese and Turkish prime ministers whose commentaries were greeted with loud rounds of applause. Palestinian participants included President Mahmoud Abbas Abu Mazen. Israeli participants included Deputy Prime Minister Shimon Peres and Foreign Minister Tzini Levi. Also present was US Deputy Secretary of State Robert Zoellick. The figures sought after by the international media, however, were a handful -- Zoellick, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Deputy Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres caught most of the limelight.
The conference originally started out with a focus on the business agenda, laying the blueprint for a more prosperous region. Experts stressed that the oil boom should be made the most of for the benefit of the region. The slump in the performance of Arab stock markets was explained as a natural evolution of growing markets and of contagion resulting from greater integration with the world. However speakers stressed the need for the strengthening of capital market regulations and greater transparency to avoid volatility as well as strengthening investor culture.
Participants hoped to promote the region as a favourite destination for tourism and investment. Business meetings between Arab businessmen and their foreign counterparts and meetings between Egyptian officials and their foreign counterparts produced tangible results. The aim was not to announce any actual deals, but to lay the groundwork for future cooperation.
Implicitly sending a message to the US, Mubarak further challenged Washington to "work towards a world that fosters multilateralism, abides by international legitimacy and steers away from unilateral actions".
He warned that the world must overcome the widening gap between rich and poor and block escalating threats of terrorism.
Mubarak criticised the double standards of the US nuclear policy -- Washington's resolute silence on the Israeli nuclear arsenal and its drive to deprive Iran of a nuclear programme.
The forum has no power to take decisions but it could be viewed as a platform for "enhancing dialogue with Asia, Europe and the US, and a blossoming interchange within the region itself shows that the Middle East is genuinely starting to take its place in the global community. The rich array of outcomes and achievements from this meeting has shown what a key role the World Economic Forum can play in helping with this process," said Sherif El-Diwany, director of Middle East and North Africa at the WEF.
Participants in forum symposiums Sunday at the WEF's regional meeting talked about ways to increase dialogue and expand democracy in Arab nations, although the discussions sometimes butted into regional realities.
One of the interesting symposiums was "Enhancing dialogue, strengthening cooperation", which brought together Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan, Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmed Badawi, Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Al-Siniora and the Egyptian Prime Minister Ahmed Nazif. "Globalisation had dismantled borders so we need to address our differences between and within countries," said Nazif.
Erdogan called on regional leaders to engage in more dialogue with Syria, noting Turkey's positive relationship in creating a "culture of dialogue" with all its neighbours. "Dialogue is a methodical way of communicating; We need to look at it as a mechanism."
Participants asked Erdogan "to recommend to his Egyptian counterpart the main components" of real dialogue to establish democracy. Erdogan and Badawi agreed that "inclusion" was the key word.
"You have to include everyone because if you exclude someone you would be getting the enemy out of him so why create enmity in the first place," Badawi concurred.
Erdogan added, however, that dialogue is not an end in itself -- it is only a tool to other greater objective; Democracy."
Malaysia was regarded by many as a model for the world. The majority of its people are Muslim but it is a multicultural and multireligious nation. "Real dialogue which is not a monologue," said Badawi, "no one is marginalised -- no one is out of the circle, to continue moving towards a "common progressive future". Badawi pointedly called for engagement with Hamas. "Let us not isolate them," he said to loud applause from participants.
Closing the forum, Queen Rania of Jordan invited participants to come to Jordan next year saying that discussions have to continue. "There are the values we have to instil such as tolerance, respect for human rights and property rights, that make the processes successful, sustainable and genuine."

Inauguration of the Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Center (SHICC)

2006-03-28T09:17:00.000-08:00

Inauguration of the Sharm El Sheikh International Congress Center (SHICC)

in a record time to host the World Economic Forum and other international and regional events in Egypt
Siemens Egypt Industrial Solutions and Services (I&S) announced the delivery of a successful project previously signed with the private investor, Naama Golf & Touristic Investment Company, one of Mr. Hussein Salems' group of companies known as HKS GROUP, for the construction of the first International Congress Center in Sharm El Sheikh under the supervision of Shaker Consultancy Group. The turnkey project works covered overall project coordination for the center design and construction of all electromechanical works; including glass curtain walls and state-of-the-art technology at highest quality standards.
The project covers an area of 22,000m2 and includes a main congress hall occupying 2,180m2 to accommodate 2,100 persons, ten VIP private lounges, eleven flexible meeting rooms to host a range of events for another 2,500 persons, a main lobby, several waiting areas and registration offices, TV studio, press area, service area, staff area, cafÃƒÂ© and restaurant, storage areas as well as 40,000 square meters of green areas and landscape. The new International Congress Center is now ready to accommodate international and regional events and forums at the highest level.
For more information: www.siemens.com.eg.

Viking Century Sun wird dritter Neubau auf dem Jangtse

2005-12-23T18:19:00.000-08:00

Viking Century Sky Review by CruiseNetwork

2005-11-30T19:36:00.000-08:00

Gloria Resort Sanya Wins Title of “Best Holiday Hotel’ again

2005-11-23T19:36:00.000-08:00

Tea Ceremony by Nicolas C. Solari

2005-10-14T20:55:00.001-07:00

Did You Know that People Celebrate a "Ceremony" with Green Tea in China?

Tea cleanses the soul and makes the mind free...; Drink tea and forget the stress of everyday life – is what it says in many specialized books and literature about green tea.

Chinese naturopathy has long known about the positive effects of green tea on our health. The results are astonishing. Green tea prevents cardiovascular diseases and the development of malignant tumors, protects against viruses and bacteria, and is good for our digestion. Because of its healing effect, as well as its valuable ingredients (such as alkaloids, saponins) and vitamins (B1, B2, biotin, vitamin K), the favorite drink of the Chinese has also become very popular with us in Europe.

The Chinese Tea Ceremony:

Viking River Cruises To Sponsor a Second School in Jingzhou, China

2005-09-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

Viking River Cruises to Sponsor Education in China.

For over 85 years, Cenhe Primary School has enhanced the lives and aspirations of many rural Chinese. This success is due not only to housing and educating the students, but also providing them with Hope.

Shashi No.2 Viking Hope School, Hubei Province.

It is in honour of that tradition that and a commitment to give back to the places we visit that Viking River Cruises decided to convert Cenhe Primary School into Shashi No.2 Viking Hope School in 2005.

Beginning in October 2004, Viking River Cruises was honoured to work alongside the local educational administration to set the groundwork for this humanitarian investment.

Viking River Cruises has continued to invest in the school’s infrastructure and equipment.
Believing that education is one of the best paths to achievement, Viking River Cruises is dedicated to this institution to provide its students with the best education possible.

Viking River Cruises will not only invest in the physical building itself, but also in the eager students of this great developing country.

Students welcoming passenger of the Viking China Fleet

It is our hope that this institution will strengthen the bridge of friendship with people from all over the world and further cultural exchange.

About Jingzhou:
Jingzhou City of Hubei Province, located near the middle reaches of Yangtze River, is in the centre of Jianghan Plain. To the east is Wuhan, the capital city of Hubei Province, to the west Yichang and the Three Gorges, to the south Hunan Province and to the north Jingmen another city in Hubei Province.

NIE LIANG (聂亮), Chairman of Viking Hope School and Nicolas C. Solari, Hotel General Manager from Viking.

Jingzhou enjoys a long history and ancient civilization. With the old name of Jiangling, Jingzhou is one of the 24 famous cities of culture history published by the State Council. The city is regarded in archaeology and tourism "a rare complete ancient city in south China". Many precious relics, excavated in Jingzhou, with great value for archaeology, scientific study and display, are called "Nation's Treasure".The national economy of Jingzhou is developing in every aspect and the city has great comprehensive economic strength. The main agricultural and sideline products grown in Jingzhou play an important part in Hubei Province and China.

The industry in Jingzhou has begun to take shape. A complete industrial system with textile, chemistry, auto parts, food, building material, construction, electronics and metallurgy is already formed. Being an experimental city for the national comprehensive reform and an opening city along the Yangtze River, the investment environment of Jingzhou is perfect.

Nicolas showing the project of the new playground

In the city there are built the Shashi Airport, the Shashi Port of Yangtze River and Yihuang Highway. With Customs and Commodity Inspection Institution, Jingzhou provides convenience for direct import and export.

About the Project Hope:
The founder of Project Hope, mission is to raise much-needed funds for the improvement of educational conditions in China's poor areas and promote youth development in China. Its goal is to safeguard the educational rights of children in poor areas. In line with government policy of raising educational funds from a variety of sources, Project Hope mobilizes Chinese and foreign materials and financial resources to help bring dropouts back to school, to improve educational facilities and to promote primary education in China's poverty- stricken areas".

Seeking non-governmental financial and physical support in both China and overseas for the improvement of primary education in economically underdeveloped regions in China, Project Hope tries to help enrol in school those school age children who can not go to school or drop out of school because of poverty.

Nicolas with the children

It tries to improve the educational conditions, the classroom and school facilities in particular in underdeveloped rural areas. Furthermore, Project Hope tries to contribute to poverty reduction in local areas by contributing agricultural and technical knowledge and skills to the curricula and instruction of its Hope Primary Schools and encouraging the schools' participation in business operations.
As a non-governmental charitable project, it has special political and educational legitimacy, power, and influence in China. The phrase "Project Hope" has become a household word among the Chinese people.

Press Releases:

Viking River Cruises pflegt Patenschaft fr Grundschule in Jingzhou

Viking Century Sky Review by Cruisecritic

2005-08-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

VIKING CENTURY STAR by Cruise opinion

2005-07-24T02:48:00.001-07:00

Inaugural Cruise on the Viking River Sky by Nancy Kelly

2005-07-24T02:48:00.000-07:00

PRESTIGIOUS 2005 "WORLD'S BEST" AWARD

2005-07-08T18:19:00.000-07:00

Endorsments

2005-06-20T19:30:00.000-07:00

See What other professionals says about Nicolas

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“Nicolas Solari is an international, multilingual hotel-business developer and results driven personality with many years mangement expertise in hotel-management. He posses very good planning, organization coordination skills and managed sustainable change processes into profitabe growth. For years Nicolas Solari is a Member of the Global Hoteliers Club.”

Ermano Bassi,
Owner/CEO Gastronoma AG
Intrapreneur/Partner, Reputation-Management
Posted on LinkedIn
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“Nicolas performed a high quality opening with very little time. He ensured the highest standards of finishings on the resort hotel and followed up in all areas. He provided excellent training to all departments in the hotel prior to the opening as well. Nicolas is an extremely organized individual that plans well and has a very positive attitude.”

Fran Roach,
General Manager, Jolie Ville Golf Course, Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Posted on LinkedIn
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“Nicolas has demonstrated high developement and operations capabilities during the opening of The Royal Peninsula, Hands on Leader and a Team builder are just some of his qualities. There is no doubt that Nicolas will be a great asset for any company that is is part of.”

Vania Bosque,
Consultant, CHA International
Posted on LinkedIn
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“Nicolas is very experienced in the hospitality industry. I had the pleasure of working with Nicolas on our ship the Century Sky in China. Nicolas is very professional and informative, guests really seem to enjoy him”

Cheri Stratton,
VP Operations, Viking River Cruises,
Posted on LinkedIn
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" Nicolas is a reliable, softspoken hotel manager who functions well in a very diverse environment.”

Joost Ouendag,
VP Land Operations & Prod. Dev., Viking River Cruises
Posted on LinkedIn
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" It’s my pleasure to work with Mr. Nicolas. C. Solari for three years. Mr. Solari is a highly dedicated and hard working person, with a large experience serving him to anticipate all situations. He cares for the people and the people like him in return. Mr. Nicolas is a sophisticated, professional, efficient, successful hotel manager. He is the proper person with full of hospitality knowledge, seasoned experience, excellent organizer and problem-solver smartly, he has the ability to motivate and lead staff. He is very friendly, helpful and tactful with guest. I really enjoy working with him."

Tang Melissa,
Manager, New Century Cruise Company, China
Posted on Wiwih
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" Nicolas is a personable, hands-on type of manager. He has refined people skills, and thrives in multinational work settings. He is an accomplished "trouble-shooter" and deals well with high pressure situations. He is focused and has an eye for detail. With his years of experience in the field and unique skills sets, he is a valuable asset to any organization he works with.”

Kevin Hart,
Manager, Victoria Cruises, Chongqing, China
Posted on LinkedIn
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“Nicolas, a talented dynamic person. Always full with creative and innovative ideas and very caring result oriented person i shall said.”

Jay Hiang,
Sales Director, Cairnhill Hospitality Intelligence Pte Ltd (CHI)
Posted on LinkedIn
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" I had the pleasure to hire twice Nicolas Solari as Food and Beverage Director, at the Gloria Resort and at Palm Beach Resort and SPA. Nicolas proved to be an asset to our company, diligent, hard worker, loyal, with a great sense of business and controls.”

Mario De Sa Pereira,
Owner, SAS Plage Royale, France
Posted on LinkedIn
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" I have had the pleasure of engaging with Nicolas Solari on various promotional tasks while developping European market, packages and MICE segment for the Palm Beach. He have a great ability to find original solutions and new ideas and to think outside the box. He also handle the organization and the organizer of events for conventions and banquets to perfection, no matter how difficult the request or situation is. I and have nothing but admiration for his dedication, hard work and perseverance while maintaining a firm focus on a long term vision for filling the rooms and generate revenue. "

Meixia Zhang,
Sales Manager - Holiday Inn Hotel, China
Posted on Wiwih
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" I was very impressed by Nicolas Knowledges of accounting. I had the chance to observe his dynamism during the pre-opening of the Palm beach Resort, where long meeting were required Nicolas was always prepared professionaly to discuss with diplomacy and charisma with the owners. I saw him remodeling completly the first draft budget, saving money for the owner avoiding construction mistakes and buying the necessary items. We worked very closely together as we established budget according his marketing and business plan. Together we set up an accounting system in accordance to international charts. We implemented P&L for every profit center and all the procedures for the operational part of the hotel. Thanks to the implementation of a credit meeting and cash flow report on his demand we improve the overal financial situation.He always was of good and kind advice and I had pleasure to work by his side, like all our collegues. "

Tony Liu,
Director of Financial - Holiday In City Centre, China
Posted on Wiwih
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" Upon arrival in china in 1999, Nicolas trained thousand of associate and hundred of manager to become professionals executives in hospitality, with the opening of two top hotel resort in Sanya and the three best cruise ship on the Yangzte . His dedication to passing knowledges has had such a positive impact and contributed to develop the hospitality in this now well known destination that is Sanya and now the cruising experience in China. He also consulted for the Hygien bureau of Hainan Island to develop the standard and procedures. Nicolas is an example and an active member of what ECHMEC stand for: the development of western standards in China.

Qiu Zhao Tong,
Chairman E.C.H.M.E.C Europe-China Hotel Management Expertd Council
Posted on LinkedIn
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" I worked with Mr.Solari to set-up & run the coffee shop and bars in the palm beach hotel. He trained the staff,teach about wine ,management,menus,up-sales technique and English, He care for details very much and is a tough but fair boss and he care for the staff ,he always make sure to give tools to make the job perfectly. I like to work for him as I already did in the Gloria hotel, leaning new things in F&B as he knows a lot and he walk the talk."

Jerry Lao,
Manager - Mangrove Tree Hotel, Hainan, China
Posted on Wiwih
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" As Front office manager I worked daily in contact with Mr. Solari for VIP, Reservation, occupancy and daily operation. He guided the implementation of the guest history system, VIP welcome standards and always gave good advise for inter-department procedures. I can say that he was always everywhere making sure all our guests had a pleasant stay, taking care of special requests and little problems. He always gave good guidance and clear guidelines and most of all he was available for help around the clock. He cared tremendously for the well-being of all colleagues and guests and was loved by all. "

Edmund Meng,
Front Office Manager, Kempinski Commune, Beijing
Posted on Wiwih
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“I know Nicolas since the beginning of his career, in Switzerland some years ago, but lost regularly connection as he went to China. I'm proud of his sense of organising several tasks in several different countries and cultures in the world. He can manage very hard work and at the same time he has still this “international” sense of humour. He has developed particular skills in “feeling” what people like and where to go in the hotel business and he is ready for the hardest challenge. I’m simply impressed. I’m glad to know that he’s doing well and guess where he’ll be in a couple of years. Australia, Canada or somewhere else? I wish him all the best and “see you” on the next voyage.”

Marina SM Corrias,
Country sales manager, Knorr, Bremse
Posted on LinkedIn
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" Mr. Solari is by far the best manager and supervisor I've ever had in 16 years and 3 continents. I learnt so much from him, grew professionally and matured as an individual while working under him. It was an honour and a privilege working for him."

Cheng-Yu chang
Posted on Wiwih
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“Nicolas is a highly professional individual with expertise in strategic and operational management and an exceptional record gained in several continents.”

Axel Köster,
General Manager, Manhattan Group
Posted on LinkedIn
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" Nicolas brings great spirit to any operation, great in teamwork, outgoing personality. An asset to any operation, a go getter, makes things happening.”

Hermann Reiner,
Various area positions, Hilton International
Posted on LinkedIn
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“Nicolas was a very dedicated professional. very hard working and ambitious.”

Ivan Suardi,
Executive Chef Projects, Hyatt International
Posted on LinkedIn
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" I have known Nicolas Solari to be a true hotelier, willing to help, of good advise and his reputation as a person of integrity and loyalty is indisputed. Aquiring him and his professional knowledge within a team will surely be a profitable action as he also have a strong sense of ownership and a formidable finacial acumen.”

Sofiane Ghorbel,
General Manager, SOFOS Company - Corporate Events Management & Consulting - Offices in Tunis and in Vienna
Posted on LinkedIn
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" I have always know Nicolas as a team player, hard working colleague and enthusiast. I believe Nicolas is a good person to work for or to have as an employee because of his dedication to his industry and his in depth knowledge of our industry.”

Wolfgang Baermann,
Ass. Director of Finance, Hyatt International
Posted on LinkedIn
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Back to Nicolas' Homepage

VIKING RIVER CRUISES LAUNCHES NEW LUXURY SHIP ON YANGTZE

2005-04-23T23:26:00.000-07:00

AS TOURISM IN CHINA BOOMS, VIKING RIVER CRUISES
LAUNCHES NEW LUXURY SHIP ON YANGTZE

As tourism in China expands dramatically, Viking River Cruises is rising to meet demand with the launch of their third ship in three years. Viking Century Sun will join sister ship Viking Century Sky on the Yangtze River, allowing Viking River Cruises to offer even more cruisetours featuring the most popular Chinese cities of Beijing, Xian (home to the Terra Cotta Warriors) and Shanghai plus the dramatic Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.

Viking River Cruises Chairman Torstein Hagen noted that China will be the #1 tourist destination in just a few years. Hagan said, "We've had such praise and demand for our China cruisetours, with the new Viking Century Sun we can now share this experience with a larger audience. With our unique Swiss hotel management, namely Hotelier Nicolas Solari, and the newest, most luxurious ships on the river, we offer travelers the ability to see all the key attractions while traveling on all-inclusive, fully-escorted tours with Viking's own English-speaking guides. It makes travel to this exotic destination carefree and comfortable."

China's tourism continues to grow. The Asia and Pacific region saw a 50 percent increase in tourism in 2004, with China's growth accounting for roughly half the increase according to January 2005 World Tourism Organization statistics. River Cruising is also a growing trend with a 23 percent increase in bookings from 2003 to 2004, according to the UK and Europe Cruise Information Service.

For 2006, Viking River Cruises offers 4 all-inclusive itineraries in China. These range from 9 to 15 nights; each highlights China's top "must-see" landmarks such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Terra Cotta Warriors, and Shanghai's Bund plus the legendary Three Gorges and Three Gorges Dam on your Yangtze River cruise. All itineraries include 5-star hotel stays, with 3 nights in Beijing, 1 night in Xian, and 2 nights in Shanghai; plus a Yangtze cruise on either the new Viking Century Sun or Viking Century Sky (built 2005 and 2006 respectively) for 3, 4, 7, or 9 nights, depending on selected itinerary. Each program includes: all shore excursions and tours, meals, hotel stays in 5-star properties, intra-Asia flights, and a Viking River Cruises English-speaking escort from airport arrival to departure. An optional 4-night Hong Kong and Guilin extension can be added to any itinerary. Passengers can choose from more than 100 departure dates running March 2006 through November 2006.

Both Viking Century Sun and Viking Century Sky were built in partnership with the Chongqing New Century Cruise Company. With these two new ships, Viking River Cruises continues to provide the only vessels on the Yangtze River with Swiss-managed service and Western food, both of which have proven extremely popular with passengers. Viking River Cruises also maintains offices in Beijing and Chongqing to manage all operations and oversee the company's English-speaking guides.

Like her sister ship, Viking Century Sun features an observation lounge, restaurant, sauna, sun deck, bar, massage room and beauty salon, plus Internet access and two elevators enabling easy access to the ship's five decks. The ship measures 415 ft. in length and 56 ft. in width with a capacity of 300 passengers. All cabins are equipped with a private balcony, telephone, hairdryer, air conditioning, and private bathroom with shower.

About Viking River Cruises
Viking River Cruises, the world leader in river cruising, offers quality service, gourmet cuisine and comfortable scenic cruising along Europe, Russia and China's majestic rivers. Viking River Cruises brings excellence to travel in China. Our China tours and Yangtze river cruise feature meals designed by Martin Yan, ensuring you culinary delights as you experience Yangtze river cruising. Honored as the top river cruise line on Travel & Leisure's "World's Best" Awards, Viking River Cruises has also appeared on Conde Nast Traveler's "Gold List" in 2004 and 2005. Since its 1997 inception, the company has grown to a fleet of 25 vessels and provides a unique, affordable vacation to experienced travelers with an interest in geography, culture and history. For additional information, contact Viking River Cruises toll-free at 1-877-66VIKING (1-877-668-4546) or visit the company online at vikingrivercruises.com

Viking River Launches Newest China-Based Vessel

2005-04-19T00:46:00.000-07:00

Viking River, the Swiss-based river cruise operator with one of the industry's strongest fleets in Europe, continues to expand its outreach in Asia as well with the launch last week of Viking Century Sky -- its second custom-designed new-build for China.

The 306-passenger ship -- with a capacity of nearly twice that of the 168-passenger Viking Century Star, which was introduced last year -- sails three- and four-night Yangtze River itineraries.
This ship features amenities such as feather duvets, telephones, air conditioning and cable TV. and all cabins have river-view balconies. Other features onboard include a gym, beauty salon, massage rooms, Internet center and Western-style galley.

The ship's debut last week was unique, reports Cruise Critic correspondent Susan Jaques, on hand for the festivities:"Colorful lion dancers, musicians and confetti greeted guests as they embarked on the inaugural voyage of Viking River Cruises' newest vessel, the Viking Century Sky. Despite the good luck conferred by the lion, the evening embarkation of some 300 passengers was delayed three hours because flooding on the Yangtze River submerged the gangplanks."Viking River did not allow Mother Nature or a rickety boarding facility to put a damper on the festivities however. The 'sky' was the limit as guests enjoyed champagne, wine and canapes on the balloon-filled Sun Deck while listening to welcome speeches.

The crowd included Chinese government officials, Viking River Cruises Chairman Torstein Hagen and Peng Jian Hu, President of New Century Cruise Company, Viking's partner and ship builder.
"The reception was followed by a gourmet dinner that began with caviar and included bacon-wrapped Chinese black pears with gorgonzola, porcini-duck dumplings and truffles, warm lobster strudel with vanilla saffron sauce, and angus fillet and goose liver. Australian Chardonnay Semillon and French Pinot Noir accompanied the multi-course extravaganza.

"The next morning under clearer skies, Viking Century Sky set sail for three nights, with stops at the dramatic cliff-hugging Shibaozhai Temple and the spectacular Lesser Three Gorges. Maintenance work at the monumental Three Gorges Dam precluded the vessel from going through the lock as planned." Back on land, Viking River president Jeffrey Dash told Cruise Critic that the cruise line is committed to expanding its offerings in China."China is definitely an emerging market," he says, noting that travel surveys show that it will be the largest tourism destination by 2020. "More importantly, as our customers experience more of our European and Russian programs, they have started asking for trips there. And up until recently, the real challenge of the river, the Yangtze experience, is that ships were generally not up to North American standards.""We like being trendsetters," according to Dash. He says that interest is already increasing.

The line in 2004 carried 4,700 passengers; this year he anticipates that U.S. cruisers alone will account for 17,500. Indeed, the cruise line is expanding its commitment – already under construction is Viking Century Sun, an identical twin to Viking Century Sky. Sun will debut next year.At 415 feet long, with six decks and two elevators, the light, contemporary, Scandinavian-style Viking Century Sky is the largest in the company's fleet of 25 river vessels operating in Russia, Europe and China. Itineraries range from three to nine nights, and additional on-land touring programs are available.

Viking Chairman Tor Hagen Congratulate Nicolas Solari and his team

2005-04-18T23:18:00.000-07:00

New linked site for Viking

2005-04-08T00:52:00.000-07:00

Here you will find the most comprehensive and up-to-date guide to the Yangtze River cruise. It covers all aspects of the cruise experience from onboard cuisine to the Three Gorges landscape to the various ports of call - in detail and with candor.

Hainan, an Island Apart

2005-03-06T07:59:00.000-08:00

REGIONAL FEATURE

An island apart

Once the castaway island of the disgraced, Hainan now enjoys the reputation of a growing tourism haven

----By Anna Bartram

Host to the Miss World beauty contest from 2003 to 2005, the Hainan Coconut International Festival and one of the largest banana producers in China - it is hard to imagine Hainan as anything other than a sleepy tropical getaway. The resorts of Sanya offer unspoilt stretches of sand, expensive golf courses and strips of luxurious hotel resorts.

For centuries, Hainan was known to the Chinese as "the end of the world" - those who fell out of favour with the emperor were sent there to live in exile. Formally separated from nearby Guangdong province in 1988, it was declared a Special Economic Zone and made into its own province. It lies at the southernmost spot in China but by no means carries its once legendary stigma of being the "end of the world".

Hainan has transformed itself into a popular domestic tourist destination with its sights set firmly on becoming an international one over the next four years. Sanya, in the southwest of the island, is one of China's 11 designated major tourist and holiday resorts. Four tourism zones in all are currently being developed, and high-end multinational hotels, golf courses and vacation residences are sprouting up all over the island.

According to Dirk de Cuyper, general manager of Hilton Sanya Resort & Spa, the changes have already begun. "During the two years I have spent on Hainan, significant developments have happened on the island," he says. "The city of Sanya has seen that most of the top international hotel brands have or will have their hotels here; more guests, especially international guests, select Sanya as their vacation destination; investors from both China and abroad have their development projects, not only hotels but also all-inclusive residences and recreation zones in Sanya and Hainan."

Hainan is on its way to bringing in a more international clientele. In 2005, the number of overseas tourists grew by 40 percent to 431,900. Domestic tourists for the same year registered a massive 14.7 million, but only grew by 7.4 percent. The Hilton Sanya reported a 40 percent market share from the international markets in 2006, a percentage that de Cuyper claims "is still increasing". However, he also thinks "Sanya still needs more positive international exposure and destination promotion."

Bring on the foreigners

Nicolas Solari, who opened the Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Sanya, says that when Hainan crept into the public consciousness back in 1999, 40 percent of his guests came from Hong Kong, 55 percent from mainland China and 5 percent from the rest of the world. By 2004, the numbers had changed - mainland clientele represented only 40 percent, Hong Kong guests accounted for 48 percent and foreigners rose to 12 percent. "So the effort of the destination, all in all, was successful: to capture more and more foreigners."

Beyond the high-end hotels and resorts, Hainan does not cater to the budget tourism market. Cheaper deals to nearby Thailand and the Philippines tend to make the financially conscious foreigner choose an alternative destination.

Aurora Airey, a British marketing executive in Shanghai who has holidayed in Hainan, said given the choice between returning to Hainan and travelling to Southeast Asia, she would choose the latter. "Hainan wasn't particularly cheap. Prices are high because hotels know Chinese tourists like to go there. If I had to choose again I would go to Southeast Asia because it's cheaper and there are more things to do."

The island has been a popular winter destination for Chinese tourists looking to escape the cold, but it is no longer their only choice. In December last year, travel agencies reported that fewer tourists overall went to Hainan, and instead, chose up-and-coming mainland destinations in Yunnan and Guangxi. Overall package prices to Hainan were reduced by about RMB300 and many airfares saw reductions of 30 to 40 percent.

Hainan's relative isolation from the mainland, which hampered its tourist sector and the overall development of its industries, has only begun to be remedied in the last few years. In 2004, a US$583 million railway line was built across the Qiongzhou Strait linking Guangzhou with Haikou. Changes to air travel regulations in 2003 made it easier for foreign airlines to set up a presence in Hainan and run international services, with the aim of establishing Hainan as a transport hub from which foreign visitors could jump off to other parts of China. This has already had an effect - in 2005, Haikou Meilan Airport registered significant increases in international passenger and cargo flows. Tourism sometimes comes at a cost. Hainan's tourism will continue to grow as the government is carrying out continuous efforts to develop facilities, Solari says, but he also expresses mild concern for the coming years. "The future and reputation also depends on how the tourism authorities will control the people in the trade - tour operators, taxi drivers, restaurants and hotels, to avoid any kinds of abuses. Like in other destinations - there is a temptation to overcharge foreign customers, which badly affects the reputation of Hainan."

MICE is nice

As well as tourism, Hainan is establishing itself as a China favourite for the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions market, known as MICE. Sanya's government invested heavily in the Miss World 2003 pageant and subsequently acted as the contest's host for the following two years. Haikou held the East Asian Seas (EAS) Congress, which discussed the sustainable development of the seas in the East Asia region, in 2006; and Boao, a fishing village on the east of the island, has received increased international attention for its role in hosting the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA), the first international cooperation organisation based in China.

The leisure and MICE industries are "key" to Sanya, according to de Cuyper, who said his hotel's marketing share from the MICE business is increasing.

Other emerging industries on the island include electronics - colour televisions, refrigerators and various electronic parts - and food and beverage. Yeshu, a popular brand of coconut milk on the mainland, has its headquarters in Hainan.

A natural treasure trove

Hainan is fortunate enough to be rich in several natural resources. Its inland and offshore deposits of oil and natural gas rank among the highest in China - gas reserves run as high as 99.6 billion cubic metres; titanium reserves account for 70 percent of the national total and the area around the island is the country's major sea-salt production base. Tropical cash crops are abundant on the island; Hainan is China's most important tropical fruits production and seeds-breeding base. It has the largest share of primary industry in its GDP out of all the provinces in China, with fishing representing a major part of the island's agriculture.

Foreign and Chinese firms alike have wasted no time in cashing in on the island's rich bounties. In 2006, British energy giant BP and China National Offshore Oil Corp (CNOOC) invested US$100 million in a gas drilling project in the Yacheng 13-1 gas field in the South China Sea off Hainan, for piping natural gas to Hong Kong. Sinopec Group opened a refinery on the island in the same year that has an annual processing capacity of 8 million tonnes.

Big outside investors in Hainan include Taiwan, the US and Singapore, but Hong Kong comes out on top of the list, with companies such as COSCO and CITIC Pacific establishing projects there.

In a ploy to attract greater capital flows to Hainan's shores, provincial governor Wei Liucheng invited investors to develop the 270 uninhabited isles off Hainan Island into tourist centres. As of current writing, however, just three of the isles have been developed. Wei said that Hainan will further expand tourism in accordance with the 11th Five Year Plan (2006-2010) by encouraging holiday-making and pleasure-seeking.

In its 11th Five-Year Plan, Hainan pledged to achieve annual economic growth of 9 percent. Particular attention was given to the natural gas and petrochemical, modernisation of agriculture and related infrastructure and the development of energy-saving and conservation measures.

Tourism is not the only field to enjoy future growth, but it is a significantly expanding industry. Hainan now has the chance to be known as a destination to travellers outside of China, due to improved transport links and a number of international high-profile events.

But improvements could still be made, in Solari's opinion. "The other challenge for a destination, apart from being competitive for prices, is to be continuously new and trendy, to create repeated events of international calibre, festivals and offer more diversity in the way of entertainment," he says.

For Hainan to truly succeed as an international tourist hub, it needs to expand the range of facilities and hotels on offer to ensure a wider choice of accommodation, shopping and leisure activities for visitors. Only then can what used to be one of the country's poorest and most backward provinces be transformed into the island paradise it strives to be.

BACK

A promotional Idea for Viking Century Sky

2005-03-05T04:22:00.000-08:00

Hotel General Manager, Nicolas C. Solari posing with the complete crew.
These pictures will be used as promotional material during the season.

The deluxe M.S Viking Century Sky, launched in 2004, is one of the finest ships sailing the Yangtze River. Meticulously designed by a leading Scandinavia architectural firm and custom-built to conform to Western standards, it provides a new benchmark for the comfort and style of Chinese river cruise.

Guests are accommodated in spacious (221 to 332sq.ft.) outside staterooms tastefully decorated in contemporary Chinese style. Each stateroom features floor-to-ceiling windows opening onto a balcony from which travelers can view the stunning scenery of the Three Gorges and the Yangtze River. Staterooms feature private bathroom facilities with shower, air conditioning, telephone, satellite television, hairdryer and in-room safe.

The restaurant accommodates all guests in a single, open seating and specializes in Chinese and Western fare. Public areas include and observation lounge and bar, lobby bar, coffee shop, hair salon, boutique, business center, reading room, fitness center, massage & SPA facilities, sauna and sun deck. Laundry service is available and physician is on board.

The M.S Viking Century Sky has a highly trained, English-speaking crew that offers a superior level of personalized service to enhance your China travel experience. The ship also possesses the latest in satellite communications and state-of-the -art navigation and safety systems.

瑞士酒店管理者 Nicolas Solari 管理在中国最好的内河游船

2005-03-01T17:05:00.000-08:00

维京“世纪天子”号豪华游轮

维京“世纪天子”号豪华游轮，建成于2004年，是长江上最杰出的游轮之一。由斯堪的纳维亚(半岛)首屈一指的建筑公司为符合西方标准而精心量身定做，在中国游船的舒适度和风格上给出了新的标准。
客人们居住在宽敞(221 到332平方英尺)开放式的豪华船舱中，整个房间被当代中国式的装饰布置得极富品位。每个房间均设有与阳台相连接的落地窗，可供游客尽情地欣赏三峡的旖旎风景。同时，每个房间还都具有独立的卫生间、空调、电话以及卫星电视、电吹风和保险箱。
餐厅为每位顾客提供独具风格的中西式餐点，同时是独立开放的座位模式。公共区域设有观景娱乐厅、大堂吧、咖啡厅和美容美发室、礼品商店、商务中心、阅览室、健身房、按摩桑拿中心，以及阳光甲板。同时船上还提供洗衣服务和医疗就诊服务。
维京“世纪天子”号还具有训练有素且英语流利的员工为您提供人性化的优质服务，为您的旅行留下更多美好的回忆。游船还拥有最新的卫星通信设备、最先进导航系统和安全体系。

关于(Nicolas C. Solari) 尼古拉斯.索拉瑞：
尼古拉斯是一位来自于瑞士洛桑的多才多艺的酒店管理者。自1999年就来到中国，他是目前欧洲——中国酒店管理专家委员会的一位非常积极、活跃的成员。
他所管理的团队在中国亚龙湾凯莱是首家获得豪华五星级荣誉称号的酒店，他负责了海南椰林滩旅游休闲渡假胜地的开业工作，并为椰林滩发展成为最受欢迎的旅游休闲胜地做出了极大的贡献。
自瑞士维金游船公司在中国投资合作第一年时，尼古拉斯便加入了该公司。在“维京世纪之星”轮获得五星级荣誉后，又领导管理了“维京世纪天子”轮并再次获得五星级游船荣誉。到目前为止，在他的领导和管理下，这已经是第三次获得五星级荣誉，这同时也是他非常引以为自豪和骄傲的。
网页：http://nicolas-solari.blogspot.com/

Viking Century Sky ist das lngste und exklusivste Schiff auf dem Jangtse Westlicher Hotelstandard

2005-02-23T18:19:00.000-08:00

Swiss hotelier Nicolas Solari to manage best River Cruise Ship in China

2005-02-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

Swiss hotelier Nicolas Solari to manage best River Cruise Ship in China

M.S Viking Century Sky

The deluxe M.S Viking Century Sky, launched in 2004, is one of the finest ships sailing the Yangtze River. Meticulously designed by a leading Scandinavia architectural firm and custom-built to conform to Western standards, it provides a new benchmark for the comfort and style of Chinese river cruise.
Guests are accommodated in spacious (221 to 332sq.ft.) outside staterooms tastefully decorated in contemporary Chinese style. Each stateroom features floor-to-ceiling windows opening onto a balcony from which travelers can view the stunning scenery of the Three Gorges and the Yangtze River. Staterooms feature private bathroom facilities with shower, air conditioning, telephone, satellite television, hairdryer and in-room safe.
The restaurant accommodates all guests in a single, open seating and specializes in Chinese and Western fare. Public areas include and observation lounge and bar, lobby bar, coffee shop, hair salon, boutique, business center, reading room, fitness center, massage facilities, sauna and sun deck. Laundry service is available and physician is on board.
The M.S Viking Century Sky has a highly trained, English-speaking crew that offers a superior level of personalized service to enhance your China travel experience. The ship also possesses the latest in satellite communications and state-of-the -art navigation and safety systems.

About Nicolas C. Solari:
Nicolas is an accomplished hotelier from Lausanne, Switzerland. He has been now in China since 1999 and is active member of E.C.H.M.E.C (Europe-China Hotel Management Experts Council).

Part of the team who received the first Five stars recognition for Deluxe Resort in China, the Gloria Resort Yalong Bay, he than opened the Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Sanya Bay, in Hainan, contributing to the development of this now popular beach destination.

Nicolas joined the Viking River Cruises Sino-Swiss joint venture since the first year in China, and it is now the third time that he is proudly holding the five stars board, after receiving it last year for VRC first ship, the Viking Century Star.
http://nicolas-solari.blogspot.com/

瑞士酒店管理者 Nicolas Solari 管理在中国最好的内河游船

维京“世纪天子”号豪华游轮

维京“世纪天子”号豪华游轮，建成于2004年，是长江上最杰出的游轮之一。由斯堪的纳维亚(半岛)首屈一指的建筑公司为符合西方标准而精心量身定做，在中国游船的舒适度和风格上给出了新的标准。
客人们居住在宽敞(221 到332平方英尺)开放式的豪华船舱中，整个房间被当代中国式的装饰布置得极富品位。每个房间均设有与阳台相连接的落地窗，可供游客尽情地欣赏三峡的旖旎风景。同时，每个房间还都具有独立的卫生间、空调、电话以及卫星电视、电吹风和保险箱。
餐厅为每位顾客提供独具风格的中西式餐点，同时是独立开放的座位模式。公共区域设有观景娱乐厅、大堂吧、咖啡厅和美容美发室、礼品商店、商务中心、阅览室、健身房、按摩桑拿中心，以及阳光甲板。同时船上还提供洗衣服务和医疗就诊服务。
维京“世纪天子”号还具有训练有素且英语流利的员工为您提供人性化的优质服务，为您的旅行留下更多美好的回忆。游船还拥有最新的卫星通信设备、最先进导航系统和安全体系。

关于(Nicolas C. Solari) 尼古拉斯.索拉瑞：
尼古拉斯是一位来自于瑞士洛桑的多才多艺的酒店管理者。自1999年就来到中国，他是目前欧洲——中国酒店管理专家委员会的一位非常积极、活跃的成员。
他所管理的团队在中国亚龙湾凯莱是首家获得豪华五星级荣誉称号的酒店，他负责了海南椰林滩旅游休闲渡假胜地的开业工作，并为椰林滩发展成为最受欢迎的旅游休闲胜地做出了极大的贡献。
自瑞士维金游船公司在中国投资合作第一年时，尼古拉斯便加入了该公司。在“维京世纪之星”轮获得五星级荣誉后，又领导管理了“维京世纪天子”轮并再次获得五星级游船荣誉。到目前为止，在他的领导和管理下，这已经是第三次获得五星级荣誉，这同时也是他非常引以为自豪和骄傲的。
网页：http://nicolas-solari.blogspot.com/

Viking Century Sky - Three Gorges Cruise Video

2005-01-21T00:01:00.000-08:00

Introduction on Yangtze river

2005-01-04T05:44:00.000-08:00

Viking Century Star review by Bud Lockwood

2004-10-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

How to be a good hotelier

2004-09-24T02:48:00.000-07:00

About Viking Century Star Index of related

2004-09-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

Viking Century Star Review by CruiseNetwork

2004-08-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

Viking River Cruises Brings Its European Quality to Yangtze River Cruises

2004-07-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

VIKING RIVER CRUISES NAMED TO CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER GOLD LIST

2004-06-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

Nicolas Solari Welcome Famous Chef Martin Yan

2004-04-21T05:15:00.000-07:00

" Che fan la ma ? "
Not a Chinese proverb but it might as well be. It translates to " Have you eaten yet ? " A common greeting which makes it perfectly clear that the Chinese take their food very seriously.

Savoring local cuisine is an important part of any travel experience and a great way to discover local culture. But while in China, the prospect of the unknown, or day after day of fried rice, is enough to discourage even the most intrepid traveler. But Viking River Cruises has the perfect solution.

Thanks to a long experience in catering business and after being five years in China,
Nicolas C. Solari, Hotel General Manager for Viking in China, had a clear idea of the food requirements of the Westerner in China.

With this idea in mind, we asked famous Chef, Mr. Martin Yan to design all the Chinese treats on board especially for our guest our Viking Ships.

Mr. Solari sent his finest chefs to be trained in Hong Kong by celebrity Chef Martin Yan, to be trained for cooking the offered Chinese food especially for the American palate

A blend of East meet West

As with all facets of your vacation, we make sure your dining experience is top notch. Onboard, our Swiss catering department oversees your meals and alternate between Chinese and Western entrees for the variety you crave you'll enjoy local cuisine, or you can order delicately grilled chicken or tender steak, which are always on the menu. You onboard lunches offer Western food choices, plus a selection of "Martin Yan Created" Chinese options. The Captain will be very proud to treat you and introduce typical dishes from China.

About Mr. Martin Yan

Martin Yan, celebrated host of over 2,000 cooking shows, highly respected food and restaurant consultant, and certified master Chef, enjoys distinction as both authorer and autor. His many talents have found unique expression in 26 well-acclaimed cookbooks.

Born in Guangzhou, China, Chef Yan has always possessed a passion for cooking. However, his formal introduction into the culinary world started at age thirteen when he began his first apprentice ship for a well-established Hong Kong restaurant. After earning his diploma from Overseas Institute of Cookery, Hong Kong, Chef Yan traveled to Canada and then on the United States Before receiving his M.S. in food Science, Chef Yan began to teach Chinese cooking and soon after began hosting the popular show, " Yan Can Cook ".He has been a frequent guest chef-instructor at professional chef program across North America. Chef Yan is the founder of the Yan Can International Cooking School in the San Francisco, Chef Yan now enjoy national and international recognition amongst his peers as a master chef. He has won innumerous awards for his achievements in the Food and Beverage industry, including a 1998 Daytime Emmy Award, a 1996 James Beard award for Best TV Food Journalism and a 1994 James Beard award for Best TV Cooking Show. Along with Paul Prudhomme, he was named Culinary Diplomat for the American Culinary Federation. Along with America's First Lady of cooking, Julia Child, he received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Culinary Arts from the world's leading culinary training mecca, Johnson & Wales University.
Mr. Martin Yan has captured the admiration and loyal following of millions of cooking fans across the world as he wins their attention and their hearts, by combining his cooking artistry and teaching skill with a most personal and unique ingredient: humor. Chef Yan's cooking shows are as entertaining as they are educational. He is dedicated to furthering the understanding and enjoyment of Chinese and Asian cuisine and culture through spirited fun and entertainment.

Press Releases:

Martin Yan to develop Chinese Menus for Viking

Gourmetfreuden in China

INAUGURAL SAILING IN CHINA

2004-04-08T18:19:00.000-07:00

Miss World Returns to Sanya

2004-03-28T10:05:00.000-08:00

Miss World Returns to Sanya
April 18th, 2004

It is official! Sanya City on Hainan Island will host the grand finale of Miss World 2004 on December 4th, 2004, at the 'Crown of Beauty' theater where last year's event was held. A press officer of Sanya City said the local government began negotiating with the competition's organizing committee on hosting the 54th Miss World Competition soon after the 53rd one, satisfied with the publicity the resort received. Julia Morley expressed satisfaction with last year's competition and announced that over 120 countries will be represented in this year's pageant.
The signing was not a clean sweep. Many Chinese cities expressed interest, but the northern beach city of Dalian emerged as Sanya's greatest competitor, flying in Ms. Morley and a team of Miss World officials to convince them to move the pageant, and Ms. Morley had seriously considered doing so, but a last-minute outbid by the Sanya Government left the people of Dalian disappointed.

Viking River Cruises baut China-Engagement aus - Viking Century Sun wird dritter Neubau auf dem Jangtse - Ab 2006 im Einsatz

2004-03-24T18:19:00.000-08:00

Kln - Viking River Cruises, die Nr. 1 im Segment der Flusskreuzfahrten, wird ab der Saison 2006 mit der Viking Century Sun ein weiteres, nunmehr drittes neues Schiff auf dem Jangtse einsetzen. Dies gab das Unternehmen jetzt auf einer Konferenz der USTOA (United States Tour Operators Association) in Ft. Lauderdale, USA, bekannt. Der Neubau erfolgt wiederum in Kooperation mit der chinesischen New Century Cruise Company, die auch für den Bau der Viking Century Star (2004) und der Viking Century Sky (2005) verantwortlich zeichnete.

Torstein Hagen, Chairman von Viking River Cruises, setzt mit dem Ausbau der Jangtse-Flotte auf die positive Weiterentwicklung von China als attraktivem Urlaubsziel. „Der Jangtse mit seinen weltberühmten Drei Schluchten gehört einfach zu den Höhepunkten, die man auf einer Chinareise gesehen haben muss“, ist Torstein Hagen überzeugt. Die fortgesetzte Partnerschaft zwischen Viking River Cruises und der New Century Cruise Company garantiere den Passagieren auch künftig höchste Standards in Sachen Komfort und Sicherheit, so der Viking-Chef weiter.

Der Hotel- und Servicebetrieb sowie das Catering an Bord der Jangtse-Flotte von Viking River Cruises stehen unter dem direkten Management der Gesellschaft und am shiff Herr Solari von Schweiz. Hiermit stelle man sicher, dass die Reisenden auch im fernen China mit demselben Qualitätsniveau wie auf den europäischen Routen rechnen könnten. Weiterhin sei man der einzige Anbieter, dessen Jangtse-Schiffe mit Küchen nach westlichem Standard ausgestattet seien und von Schweizer Hotelmanagement geführt würden, was von den Passagieren äußert geschätzt werde.

Die neue Viking Century Sun, Schwesterschiff der Viking Century Sky, wird mit Aussichtssalon, Restaurant, Sauna, Sonnendeck, Bar, einem Internet-Café sowie Massage- und Kosmetik-Salons ausgestattet. Zwei Aufzüge ermöglichen einen bequemen Zugang zu den fünf Decks des Schiffes, das bei einer Länge von knapp 127 Metern und gut 17 Metern Breite rund 300 Passagieren Platz bieten wird. Alle Kabinen sind Außenkabinen und werden jeweils mit privatem Balkon, Telefon, Haartrockner, Klimaanlage und Duschbad ausgestattet.

In 2005 wie 2006 bietet Viking River Cruises vier- und fünf- sowie neuntägige Kreuzfahrten zwischen Chongqing und Shanghai auf dem Jangtse an, die jeweils in Tour-Pakete mit Aufenthalten in Peking, Xian und Shanghai eingebettet sind.

Viking River Cruises ist die Nr. 1 im Segment Flusskreuzfahrten und in der Saison 2005 mit 25 modernen Flusskreuzern auf den schönsten Wasserwegen unterwegs: auf den großen Klassikern Rhein, Main, Mosel, Donau und Elbe, auf Seine, Rhône und Saône in Frankreich, auf den faszinierenden Wasserstraßen der Zaren in Russland und der Ukraine und auf dem majestätischen Jangtse in China. Die hohe Qualität der Services, der Küche und der abwechslungsreichen Reiseprogramme führte in jüngerer Vergangenheit zu einer Reihe von Auszeichnungen: So etwa durch das renommierte US-Reisemagazin „Condé Nast Traveler“, das Viking River Cruises als bestbewerteten Flusskreuzfahrtenanbieter in seine „Goldene Liste“ aufnahm. Oder durch die bekannte US-Zeitschrift „Travel & Leisure“, deren Leserschaft Viking River Cruises auf einen der vorderen Plätze im Ranking der 10 besten kleinen Kreuzfahrtunternehmen wählte.

Miss China 2003 in Palm Beach Resort & Spa

2003-09-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

Miss China 2003

The new Miss China is a professional model and will play host-delegate to possibly over 100 contestants in Miss World
On Sunday, September 21st on the island of Hainan, the first-ever Miss China was crowned, and she is Guan Qi, contestant number 4 from Jilin in Northeast China. She is 21 years old and 1.79 m tall and currently and undergraduate and model. She will represent China as the host delegate in the 2003 Miss World Pageant, which is set to begin in about a month. The First Runner-Up was contestant number 31, Song Bing-Jie, who is 19 years old and 1.79 m tall. The Second Runner-Up was contestant number 7, Liu Li-Nuo, who is 19 years old and 1.77 m tall. The remaining finalists were number 22, Xin Yi-Nuo (21, 1.68 m) and number 27, Sun Hai-Yan (20, 1.77 m).

The contest was organized by the New Silk Road Modelling Agency and was held in the goergous deluxe Palm Beach Resort & Spa. This year, instead of crowning a finalist at the modelling competition's final, a separate pageant was held one week later.

SARS outbreak may jeopardize Miss World in China

2003-06-28T10:55:00.000-07:00

With the outbreak of SARS in the People's Republic of China, many rumors began floating around that Miss World 2003 might possibly change its venue to another country to avoid contestant withdrawals. Indeed the official hotel for this event, the Palm Beach resort & Spa in Sanya Bay already closed due to low business and a new venue for the contestant to be found (The Sheraton is considered as it is opening soon) HOWEVER, a breaking press release by the Chinese media has confirmed that the pageant will go in the said venue, between November 9th and December 6th, 2003.

Contenders from 117 countries and regions will converge on Sanya and the pageant would be televised live to those countries and regions, said sources with the Sanya municipal government on Sunday. The cultural exhibition center, named the Crown of Beauty, is designed and built especially for this contest. Located by the scenic tropical Sanya River, the center covers a total area of 90,000 square meters with an investment of 120 million yuan (about 14.5 million US dollars).

Tourism in the P.R. of China is gradually beginning to stabilize as SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) is starting to show signs of disappearance as the battle is fought against it. Hainan, an island off of the mainland, is one of the few provinces in China not to have experienced any SARS cases whatsoever, and is continuing this trend by screening all outsiders thoroughly to ensure the resort area is not affected.

2003-04-17T04:25:00.000-07:00

The Palm Beach Resort & Spa is the most spectacular new resort in Sanya, Hainan Island, packed with fun, sun and amazing Hainan experiences. This vibrant new island playground sits on a 12 acres on a 15kms stretch of long beach with pristine waters and offers.

The hotel has 5 differently sized conference halls, the largest of which can hold up to 350 guests, equipped with up-to-date audio visual systems and a simultaneous translation system with 6-language capability. There is also a Business Center with VDSL Internet connection, providing full secretarial service and ticket reservation services.

For recreation, there is a bowling alley, tennis court, snooker, beach volleyball, children playground, two different shaped pool among villas and a hot spring jacuzzi with 40C water temperature year.

Business Center
Located on the first floor of the hotel lobby, providing fax, copy, typing and other secretarial services.

Lobby Shop
Located on the first floor of the hotel lobby, selling clothing, souvenirs, toys, gifts and so on.

Transportation
The hotel has different types of vehicles for transportation services such as Airport pick-up, city tours etc. A scheduled shuttle bus to downtown is also provided free of charge to our in-house guests.

It is about 8kms from the city center and only 5kms from the Airport.

The Palm Beach Resort & Spa consists of a 7-story building and 16 villas with a total 350 guestrooms, ranging from standard rooms to deluxe suites. There are also several villas and an elegantly decorated Presidential Villa located here. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, satellite TV, Internet access, mini-bar, safety box and IDD/DDD. 24-hour room service is also available.

Bar/Lounge Business Center Laundry
Currency Exchange Gift shops or newsstand Room service
Shopping Center Coffee Shop Ticket Service
Airport Shuttle Bus

Internet access–high speed Cable/satellite TV Air conditioning
Domestic Direct-dial phone International Direct-dial phone Hair dryer
Electricity adaptors/Transformers Minibar Balcony or terrace

Chinese City Likely to Host Miss World Contest- Miss Julia Morley Welcomed By Nicolas C. Solari EAM at the Palm Beach Resort & Spa

2002-05-22T21:47:00.000-07:00

Sanya, a tropical tourist city on south China's Hainan Island, is likely to become the first Chinese city ever to host the Miss World beauty pageant, says event organizer Julia Morley.Miss Julia Morley Welcomed By Nicolas C. Solari EAM at the Palm Beach Resort & Spa

Sanya, a tropical tourist city on south China's Hainan Island, is likely to become the first Chinese city ever to host the Miss World beauty pageant, says event organizer Julia Morley.

Morley made a five-day trip to Sanya recently, staying at the beautiful Palm Beach Resort & Spa, to inspect preparations for the China section of the contest, which will be held in September and produce a contestant for the 2003 Miss World finals in Mexico.

While expressing satisfaction with Sanya's tourism environment and the preparatory work, she hinted at the future possibility of Sanya hosting the finals of the annual contest.

Sanya was a beautiful and romantic city, she said. It had hosted several high-profile modeling contests and may successfully host the Miss World beauty pageant as well.

Xinhua has learned that Sanya authorities are actively working toward the goal of hosting the event in the next few years.

Morley, who took over the pageant's reins from her husband Eric Morley, founder of the event, after his death in 2000, is accompanied on her visit by Miss World for 2001, Nigeria's Agbani Darego, and noted film director V.G. Harris.