CaribPR Wire

Caribbean’s Next Top Model Emerges With Lifestyle Brands

CARIBEPRWIRE, NEW YORK – MARCH 26, 2013 – Caribbean’s Next Top Model, a new model competition series created in collaboration with CaribeNTM, Inc. emerges across 25 Caribbean countries with partner brands to promote 11 episodes of the most popular and first of its kind reality television.   The show debuted on Monday, February 18, 2013 on free-to-air – various Caribbean local TV stations, CaribVision and One Caribbean Television, WSEE TV in Puerto Rico during primetime.

Mark Rowen, President of Blue Collar Productions said, “We have been able to partner with CaribeNTM, Inc. to custom design and tailor television production content which highlights the unique attributes of the respective host countries.”

This one hour Reality TV program, co-produced by Blue Collar Productions, one of the leading producers of creative content for licensed television shows, provides a comprehensive look at eleven contenders competing individually and in teams for the chance to be Caribbean’s Next Top Model.  Miss Universe ‘98, Wendy Fitzwilliam serves as the celebrity host and judge, along with associate judges Pedro Virgil, International Photographer, Richard Young, Runway Coach and Creative Director of Trinidad and Tobago’s Fashion Week, and other special guest appearances from experts in the fashion industry and related fields.

Mr. Rowen adds, “We are excited to have had the opportunity to work with Caribbean’s Next Top Model television show.  We have plans to continue working together to produce leading international content with a focus on television production, distribution, marketing and syndication.  Our combined companies have the ability to broaden the future scope of entertainment television.”

The partner brands are included in the episodes in ways that range from product placements, credits, mentions in lines of dialogue, to numerous endorsements on the screen.  “If you are watching the show, chances are you aspire to emulate the lifestyle of the CNTM program’s cast,” said Wendy Fitzwilliam.  “So we want to align with those partner brands that add competitive value and reach.”

Brands such as bMobile, SACHA, and CHI were heavily featured to establish the reality of the worlds the girls lived in.  Beverly Morrison, CEO of Caribbean CHI Ltd., and Juliana Fermin, Director of Ansura Wholesalers in Trinidad and Tobago are excited to be official hair sponsors of the first season.

Beverly Morrison says, “We remain committed to the Caribbean aesthetic and we look forward to the refinement of the contestants as the imagination and execution of CaribeNTM, Inc, beauty with CHI Biosilk exceeds expectations.”

Making brand connections that were organic to the characters became the signature for show.  Juliana Fermin said, “We saw Caribbean’s Next Top Model as a vehicle for the enhancement of many industries that span; fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and television…week after week.”

Executives at SACHA Cosmetics have helped to position our footprint from the beginning to predominantly celebrate women.  “As the official cosmetics of the inaugural season and leader in the cosmetics industry in the Caribbean and as we continue on our drive toward global expansion, we recognize that partnerships like these truly complement our journey,” said Kamla Regrello, Marketing and Retail Manager.

KCL Capital Market Brokers Limited, a licensed full service investment firm based in Trinidad became involved to provide authenticity in the television series financing.  As stated by the company’s CEO Kerwyn Valley, “KCL is committed in its support for creative industries across our region.”

Other partners include Caribbean Airlines, The Carlton-Savannah, Lime Trinre, Factor Women, Caribbean Belle, Blue Waters, Kalloo’s, and Micles.

The CNTM series airs for 11 episodes and is midway through its inaugural season. The show is broadcast in over 25 Caribbean islands on terrestrial and cable television.

For a complete review of CNTM, our broadcast details, to share your thoughts on the show and to become a member fan, like us at www.facebook.com/caribbeansnexttopmodel or log on to: www.caribbeansnexttopmodel.com. Follow us  @CaribeNTM on Twitter.

About Caribbean’s Next Top Model

CARIBBEAN’S NEXT TOP MODEL was founded in July 2011. CNTM’s mission is to unleash island beauties and the enchantment of the Caribbean.  Executive Producers are Wendy Fitzwilliam and Dionyse Fitzwilliam of CaribeNTM, Inc., a production company created in association with AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL under license by CBS International, and Mark Rowen, CEO of Blue Collar Productions (USA).

About America’s Next Top Model

AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL is produced by 10 by 10 Entertainment in association with The Tyra Banks Company.  The executive producers are Ken Mok (“Making the Band”), Tyra Banks and Laura Fuest Silva. The series was created by Tyra Banks and developed by Mok and Kenya Barris. Tyra Banks also hosts the series, which will soon begin airing its 20^th cycle in the United States. Currently, AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL is under license in over 100 markets around the world and has 20 international versions in production.  AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL and the AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL format are licensed internationally by CBS Studios International.

About Blue Collar Productions

Blue Collar Productions, is one of the leading producers of creative content for studio released motion picture films and licensed television shows, amassing a high caliber library that includes the production of Caribbean’s Next Top Model.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 21, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Insel Air International B.V., Willemstad, Curacao, has joined the UATP Network as a Merchant and now accepts all UATP corporate cards, a move which will provide their corporate travelers their desired form of payment.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20081118/NETU022LOGO )

Insel Air’s mission is to generate greater connectivity within the Pan-American region. Accepting UATP for payment will help achieve this vision by giving their corporate clients more choice when traveling to one of their 16 international destinations.

“Partnering with UATP allowed us to address the needs of our growing corporate client base while simultaneously providing Insel Air with the payment solutions needed to remain competitive in this market,” said Jurgen Lippinkhof, chief commercial officer, Insel Air. “Building UATP into our business plan will support our focus on successfully capturing market share.”

“The corporate travel market is quickly expanding, increasing the need for additional payment options,” said Ralph Kaiser, president and CEO, UATP. “Accepting UATP positions Insel Air to capture the growing corporate client market.”

Insel Air is an IOSA certified airline and member of ALTA. They began operations in 2006 with the focus of connecting the Pan-American region, while concentrating on safety, on-time performance and customer service. Insel Air has a fleet of 11 aircrafts that operate approximately 46 flights a day.

UATP is the low cost payment network privately owned by the world’s airlines. For more information, visit http://uatp.com or http://www.fly-inselair.com/

About UATP

UATP is a global payment solution owned and operated by the world’s airlines and accepted by thousands of merchants for air, rail, hotel, cruise and travel agency payments. UATP offers easy-to-use tools, DataStream ^SM and DataMine ^SM which provide comprehensive data to Issuers and Corporate Subscribers for accurate travel management.

UATP accounts are accepted as a form of payment for corporate business travel worldwide by airlines, travel agencies and Amtrak^®. UATP accounts are issued by: Aeromexico; Air New Zealand (ANZFF.PK); American Airlines (AAMRQ.PK); Austrian Airlines; China Eastern Airlines (NYSE: CEA); Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL); EL AL Israel Airlines; Etihad Airways; GOL Linhas aereas inteligentes S.A. (NYSE: GOL and Bovespa: GOLL4); Hahn Air; Japan Airlines (9201:JP); Malaysia Airlines; Qantas Airways (QUBSF.PK); Shandong Airlines; United Airlines (NYSE: UAL); and US Airways (NYSE: LCC).

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., Nov. 20, 2012 /PRNewswire/ – Three Caribbean nations have joined forces to offer an unprecedented Black Friday through Cyber Monday deal that is sure to attract a large audience of US travelers.  Through cooperation between the public and private sectors, the tourism boards and hotel associations of Barbados, St. Lucia and Antigua are offering 20% off virtually any hotel or resort when booked through their official websites.  This is the first time that Caribbean nations are working together in a unified promotion to attract visitors.

"When the words ‘fiscal cliff’ are uttered on television every 30 seconds it tends to affect consumers’ propensity to plan their vacations," said Ashwin Kamlani, President of Regatta Travel Solutions. "To combat this, these three Caribbean countries are working together in a way never seen before to attract US travelers.  I applaud these Destination Marketing Organizations for working with the suppliers in their destinations to put their entire countries on sale.  The US has never seen an offer like this out of the Caribbean in history."

This blowout sale will launch on the morning of Black Friday and consumers will have until midnight Monday night to get 20% off any participating hotel or resort in all 3 countries when booked on the official DMO or Hotel Association website.  The discount is available for any participating hotel on stays through December 15^th, 2013, without any blackout dates.  Consumers can book on the following sites:

Barbados: www.bookbarbadosnow.com or www.visitbarbados.org
St. Lucia: www.bookstlucianow.com or www.stlucianow.com
Antigua: www.bookantiguanow.com

About Regatta Travel Solutions Inc.
Regatta Travel Solutions provides specialized online booking technology and marketing tactics for DMOs (Destination Marketing Organizations).  DMOs that use Regatta to book travel on their sites can increase revenue for their destination, lower the cost paid by suppliers per booking, and increase membership and participation for their organizations. Visit www.regattatravelsolutions.com for more details.  Regatta Travel Solutions is an Alliance Partner of DMAI.

Salutes the Government Retirement System of the Virgin Islands 

Seaborne to operate more seats in the Virgin Islands than any other carrier by April, 2013

SAINT CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands, Oct. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Seaborne Airlines, the regional carrier based in St. Croix, USVI, today announced its capacity plans to and from the US Virgin Islands (USVI) for Spring, 2013 and beyond.

Starting in February 2013 Seaborne plans to introduce new equipment to the USVI on select flights – - the 34-seat Saab turboprop – - to both Cyril E. King Airport at St. Thomas and Henry Rohlsen International Airport at St. Croix from Luis Munoz Marin International Airport at San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Saab operates with two pilots, a flight attendant, in-flight service and a lavatory.

 Effective April 1, 2013 more flights will be added between St. Thomas’ Cyril King International Airport and St. Croix’s Henry Rohlsen International Airport with 17-seat Twin Otter aircraft. Combined with existing Twin Otter Seaplane service between the seaplane bases in Charlotte Amalie and Christiansted, Seaborne plans to operate 300 weekly flights with over 10,000 seats into and out of the USVI – becoming the Virgin Islands’ largest carrier in terms of capacity.

 USVI travelers will also have access to Seaborne’s premium lounge at San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marín International Airport. The lounge offers comfortable seating, work areas, charging stations, light refreshments, WIFI access, and Direct TV. Additionally, Corporate Seaborne customers have access to FasTrak SJU security access, which allows travelers to go to the head of the TSA line. This new capacity to and from San Juan International as well as continued seaplane equipment upgrades have been made possible by the expanded business partnership between Seaborne and the Government Employee Retirement System (GERS) of the US Virgin Islands, according to Gary Foss, Seaborne Airlines President. "As we move forward with this historic expansion – we want to thank GERS and the Government of the US Virgin Islands for their support and confidence in the Seaborne business model and growth plan. We also want to thank our customers who have supported us for over 17 years. As one of the largest private employers in the USVI, we understand the importance transportation plays. In concert with the GERS investment that makes possible additional capacity with larger aircraft, we will enhance tourism and commerce, while adding more jobs in the USVI as we move forward through 2013."

Tourism Commissioner Beverly Nicholson-Doty concluded, "We are extremely pleased about Seaborne Airlines plans to increase service to the Territory and between our islands. She said, "The added capacity and equipment upgrades encourage more inter-island travel and ensure that travelers enjoy improved access to the Territory, better connections, and greater comfort. This news is especially welcome from a locally-based airline that is uniquely positioned to bring additional employment and revenue to the Territory."

 About Seaborne Airlines:
Seaborne Airlines – named Best Small Air Transport serving the U.S. Virgin Islands every year since 2007 – operates over 350 weekly departures between San Juan, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Vieques and starting December 2012, Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Operating for 17-years in the Caribbean, Seaborne has carried more than 2 million customers since 1995. With both seaplane and Airport airshuttle operations, all aircraft operate with two pilots under US FAR Part 121 flight rules. Flights can be reserved via the Internet at www.seaborneairlines.com or calling 866-359-8784.

Daily Nonstops Begin December 8

SAINT CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands, Oct. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Seaborne Airlines, the regional carrier based in St. Croix, USVI, and the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board in collaboration with the BVI Airport Authority today announced daily round-trip flights between San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport and Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport, serving the British Virgin Islands. The new service will operate with 17-seat Dehavilland Twin Otters with twenty four (24) flight segments per week starting December 8, 2012. Starting in February, the market will be operated with 34-seat Saab turboprop equipment with two pilots, flight attendant, in-flight service and a lavatory.  By April 2013 Seaborne plans to operate 49 weekly round-trip flights with over 3,300 weekly seats into and out of the market.  Service is scheduled to begin December 8.

Additionally, on December 8, Seaborne plans to operate new service from San Juan non-stop to Virgin Gorda, with twelve (12) flight segments weekly with 17-seat Twin Otter service. Seaborne also plans to introduce special promotional fares for BVI residents traveling to San Juan and beyond.

“We’re pleased to introduce the first scheduled Saab service to The British Virgin Islands from our connecting complex in San Juan, Puerto Rico,” said Gary Foss, president, Seaborne Airlines.  “This schedule will allow customers from throughout the United States and Canada easy connections to the beautiful and upscale British Virgin Islands, renowned for their powdery white-sand beaches, lush green mountains and sheltered yacht filled harbors.  We are especially eager to provide nonstop service directly from San Juan to Virgin Gorda, home of Little Dix Bay, the Bitter End Yacht Club, Biras Creek, other upscale resorts, villas and small locally owned properties.  And of course, there are The Baths, a national park where granite boulders create mysterious grottos in the sea”.

BVI travelers will also have access to Seaborne’s premium lounge at San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport. The lounge offers comfortable seating, work areas, charging stations, light refreshments, WIFI access, and Direct TV. Additionally, Seaborne customers have access to FasTrak SJU security access, which allows travelers to go to the head of the TSA line.

Here is the schedule December 8 – February 1 (all times local):

San Juan to Tortola

Flight          Departs   Arrives      Frequency

11:45     12:35    Daily. Except

4546              a.m.      p.m.         Wed

7:00      7:50    Daily, Except

4602              p.m.      p.m.         Wed.

Tortola to San Juan

Flight          Departs   Arrives      Frequency

6:10      7:00    Daily, Except

4503              a.m.      a.m.        Thur.

1:00      1:50    Daily, Except

4557              p.m.      p.m.         Wed.

San Juan to Virgin Gorda

Flight          Departs   Arrives      Frequency

1:00      1:55    Daily, Except

4556              p.m.      p.m.         Wed.

Virgin Gorda to San Juan

Flight          Departs   Arrives      Frequency

2:30      3:25    Daily, Except

4569              p.m.      p.m.         Wed.

About Seaborne Airlines

Seaborne Airlines – named Best Small Air Transport serving the U.S. Virgin Islands every year since 2007 – operates 337 weekly departures to San Juan and Vieques in Puerto Rico and St. Thomas and St. Croix in the USVI.  Operating for 17-years in the Caribbean, Seaborne has carried more than 2 million customers.  With both Seaplane and Airport operations, all aircraft operate with two pilots.  Flights can be reserved via the internet: www.seaborneairlines.com or calling 866-359-8784.

SAINT JOHN PARISH, Nevis, Oct. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ – Cancer Cleared Clinics, a Nevis LLC, announced today that it is waiting for approval to operate it’s Breast Cancer Clinics in thirty countries. Cancer Cleared Clinics has a unique and tested combination of therapies that are more effective and less harmful to the body than the current methods of cancer treatment used in the United States. This treatment is not available in the United States.

Eugene Steele, cancer historian, said, “I have a personal war against cancer and those that prevent better treatments. The Standard American Diet is the major cause for the two largest killers: heart disease and cancer. Every person has cancer created in their bodies everyday. Our bodies are equipped with an immune system which attacks and destroys these cancer cells. When we eat a Standard American Diet we weaken the immune system and it cannot destroy the cancer cells. This can all be reversed and has been available for over 100 years.”

The Cancer Cleared Clinics’ method is to remove the protection the breast cancer cells have, and let the body destroy these cancer cells in seven days. Cancer Cleared Clinics offers a money back guarantee and a fixed fee of $3500. No other clinics in the world will make this offer. “There have been many developers of cancer therapies that have been blocked or ignored,” stated Mr. Steele. “The United States lags behind many other countries in delivery of ground-breaking advances in quality medical care.”

Steele adds, “There are more effective treatments for cancer, but because of the politics and restrictive laws in the United States, doctors can only make quiet suggestions to their patients because these doctors do not want to incur the wrath of the FDA and the medical establishment, and jeopardize their license to practice medicine.”

Cancer Cleared Clinics is in the last phase of financing. Each Clinic costs $200,000 to establish. They have a new concept of cancer medical tourism. Each clinic will be located in a resort making the treatment a vacation. The treatment only requires 45 minutes a day for seven consecutive days. The rest of the day the client is free to enjoy their vacation with their family. There is no chemotherapy, surgery or radiation.

www.cancercleared.com

NASSAU, Bahamas, Sept. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — As Albany nears its second anniversary, the luxury resort community is expanding by starting construction on its first phase of Marina Residences.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120903/FL66681-a )

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120903/FL66681-b )

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120903/FL66681-c )

The groundbreaking of the first three buildings occurred earlier today with all three buildings slated for completion throughout 2014.

“This important second phase of construction at Albany is a terrific vote of confidence for the Commonwealth of The Bahamas,” said Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie. “The sales success that Albany has experienced is also a resilient validation of The Bahamas and its international appeal.”

Twenty-four of the 35 residences have already been sold through Albany’s preconstruction sales program that launched during the first quarter of this year. The three six-story towers, totaling 275,000 square feet, were designed by leading architects Morris Adjmi Architects, Gwathmey Siegel Kaufman & Associates Architects and HKS Architects.

Albany’s Marina Residences combine the best in waterfront living with unparalleled luxury and extraordinary views across Albany’s marina and out to sea.

Offering both modern and classic profiles, the floor plans range from two to six bedrooms with movie theaters to large penthouses with private swimming pools. Two of the three marina buildings will offer ground floor office space.

“We are very excited to begin construction of this important phase of development at Albany, and we are gratified at how well-received the Marina Residences have been,” said Christopher Anand, Albany’s managing partner.

The Marina Residences at Albany overlook one of the finest marinas in the Caribbean with 71 slips and state-of-the-art floating concrete docks that can accommodate boats from 50 feet in length up to 300 foot mega-yachts. Each slip offers electric, cable and internet connectivity, while marina attendants are available seven days a week to provide docking assistance to vessels. Albany marked the sale of its 40th marina slip this quarter.

“Albany Marina is one of the finest deep-water marinas in the world and has been designed for the most demanding yacht owners,” said Todd Turrell, principal of marine, environmental and coastal engineering firm Turrell, Hall & Associates. “The Marina Residences at Albany are a wonderful complement to this already majestic harbor.”

Jointly owned by Tavistock Group, Tiger Woods and Ernie Els, Albany is becoming recognized as the ultimate yachtsman’s retreat highlighted by a modern mega-yacht marina, Ernie Els championship golf course, a luxury boutique hotel, a fitness center and spa, an adult pool and bar, a family water park, a kids’ clubhouse and casual and fine dining restaurants.

Albany Marina enjoys a prime location amidst The Bahamas’ 700 islands. Pristine beaches, world-class fishing destinations and an international airport lie minutes from Albany Marina.

ABOUT ALBANY – THE BAHAMAS
Albany, located in The Bahamas, is a luxury resort community jointly owned by Tavistock Group, Tiger Woods and Ernie Els. Opened in 2010, Albany is nestled along approximately 600 oceanfront acres on the southwestern end of New Providence and conveniently located seven minutes and five miles from Nassau’s international airport. Albany features an array of residential offerings and amenities for all members of the family, including a well-appointed boutique hotel, a 71-slip mega-yacht marina, an Ernie Els-designed golf course, a fitness center and spa, an adult pool and bar, a family water park, a kids’ clubhouse and casual and fine dining restaurants. Albany’s deep-water marina is being designed and built to aesthetically rival the great resort ports of the world. For more information, visit www.albanybahamas.com.

ABOUT TAVISTOCK GROUP
Tavistock Group is an international private investment organization founded by Joe Lewis. With investments in more than 200 companies across 15 countries, Tavistock Group’s investment portfolio includes: life sciences, sports teams and sporting events, manufacturing and distribution, oil, gas and energy, financial services, restaurants, commercial properties, private luxury residential properties, resort properties and master-planned real estate developments. For more information, visit www.tavistock.com.

ST. GEORGES, Grenada, Jan. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — The Grenada Board of Tourism (GBT) and the Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association (GHTA) have jointly launched a new, and improved, booking engine on their respective websites www.grenadagrenadines.com and www.gogrenada.gd  which, it is expected, will bolster the island’s tourism industry. 

The implementation of Regatta allows hotels, villas and other activity providers in Grenada to use the websites of the tourism board and hotel association to exhibit control as to exactly how they are promoted. It also comes with the capacity to attract a much higher volume of bookings through the various channels that are available.

“We have every intention of maintaining close relationships with our Online Travel Agency (OTA) partners as well as our hotels,” commented Simon Stiell, Director of Tourism for Grenada.  “But we are seeing impressive results from other Caribbean destinations that have implemented Regatta and this change in our online sales and marketing strategy makes perfect sense for us.  Regatta’s powerful booking engine and destination marketing expertise is an attractive combination for any destination.”

Commenting on this development, Executive Director of the GHTA, Mrs. Pancy Cross noted that “Our hotels are very excited about this project.  Regatta has made itself very accessible and we are pleased about having a partner that can finally help us reach consumers at a reasonable cost.”

President of Regatta Travel Solutions Mr. Ashwin Kamlani stated that “There is much potential in Grenada where the tourism industry is hungry for growth and waiting to take advantage of all of the new marketing tactics that are available on the internet.  We are proud to have been chosen for this project.”

About Grenada Board of Tourism

The Grenada Board of Tourism’s objective is to market and promote Grenada as a preferred year round Caribbean tourist destination, while providing technical and managerial support to the travel trade, tour operators, industry partners and airlines. For more information on Grenada, contact the Grenada Board of Tourism at 416-595-1339, email at [email protected] or visit www.grenadagrenadines.com

About Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association

The Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association’s purpose is to advocate and lobby on behalf of its members.  In addition, the association assists members with the marketing of their businesses through its website and its printed medium, the Grenada at a Glance magazine.  For more information on the GHTA call 444-1353, email [email protected] or visit www.gogrenada.gd

About Regatta Travel Solutions Inc.

Founded by Ashwin Kamlani, Regatta Travel Solutions provides specialized online booking technology and marketing tactics for DMOs (Destination Marketing Organizations).  DMOs that use Regatta on their sites can increase demand for their destination, lower the cost paid by suppliers per booking, and increase membership for their organizations. Visit www.regattatravelsolutions.com.

LANDOVER, Md.,  Oct. 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation launches its final mission of coral reef research in the Bahamas, concluding the first year of its ambitious Global Reef Expedition. Having completed research in Cay Sal Bank, Hogsty Reef, and the Inaguas earlier this year, the Foundation now turns to Andros and Abaco islands to study sites that were last surveyed more than a decade ago.

The Global Reef Expedition is the first world-wide mapping and research assessment of coral reefs. The chairman of the Living Oceans Foundation, Prince Khaled bin Sultan, said an expedition of this scale “will greatly assist the world in understanding coral reefs, their health and critical role in the environment. Our research will produce maps of previously uncharted areas and provide management recommendations urgently needed to preserve these valuable ocean resources. We are involving local scientists in all of our research and exploration. ”

Andros contains the longest barrier reef in the Bahamas and the third largest in the world. The Foundation’s science team, joined by Bahamian researchers, will identify the abundance, size, and health of reef building coral species as well as discovering how the reef has recovered from coral bleaching events in 1998.

The Foundation’s Chief Scientist, Dr. Andrew Bruckner, said “Our research will lead to improvements in existing habitat maps and will help recent efforts to develop a land and sea use plan for the entire island including zoning of sensitive areas.”

The Foundation will survey unstudied sites around the central Abaco islands as well as some that were last surveyed in 1999 which will yield important time-change information.  The reefs of central Abaco are near areas of high population density and high user pressure which contrasts sharply with other reefs the Foundation has surveyed in the Bahamas, helping to further understand human impacts on reef health.

Commenting on the six months of coral reef research in The Bahamas the Foundation’s Executive Director Captain Philip Renaud, USN (ret), said, “The successful and productive coral reef survey and mapping missions we have accomplished during our first year of the Global Reef Expedition could not have been possible without the committed support for our work from the Minister of the Environment, the Department of Marine Resources, Bahamas National Trust, and The Nature Conservancy.”

Eric Carey, BNT Executive Director added “The Bahamas, as a nation, is extremely fortunate to have been chosen as the first country in the world-wide study of the health of coral reef environments by the Living Oceans Foundation.  Young Bahamian scientists from the Department of Marine Resources , Bahamas National Trust and College of The Bahamas have had the opportunity to join the Living Oceans Foundation research team – a once in a lifetime experience.  The final leg of the Bahamas Voyage will assess the Andros Barrier Reef and the reefs of the Abaco’s.  Both of these areas are critical for the health of Bahamian Fisheries and our larger marine environment.  The information generated from the Global Reef Expedition will feed directly into the management of our national parks and marine protected areas.”

Bahamian researchers include: Indira Brown, Jared Dillet, Agnessa Lundy, Lindy Knowles, Olivia Patterson, Krista Sherman, and Tavares Thompson.

About the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation

Founded by HRH Prince General Khaled bin Sultan of Saudi Arabia, the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation was incorporated in California as a 501(c)(3), public benefit, Private Operating Foundation in September 2000. With its headquarters in Washington DC, the Living Oceans Foundation is dedicated to the conservation and restoration of oceans of the world, and champions their preservation through research, education, and a commitment to Science Without Borders®. For more information, visit http://www.livingoceansfoundation.org

Science Without Borders® is registered to the Foundation for financial sponsorship of marine conservation programs and scientific research and to promote public awareness of the need to preserve, protect and restore the world’s oceans and aquatic resources.

MIAMI, July 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — The Barbados Tourism Authority (BTA) has endorsed the recent launch of the Barbados Hotel & Tourism Association’s OTA (Online Travel Agency), and has implemented the Regatta booking engine on VisitBarbados.org, the official government sponsored destination website for Barbados.  The Barbados Hotel & Tourism Association (BHTA) announced the launch of the OTA Software on May 31st and has seen an increasing number of bookings since.

“It just makes perfect sense,” said David Rice, President & CEO of the Barbados Tourism Authority.  “It is a huge added convenience to our visitors, the hotels and attractions love it since they retain more of the net earnings from bookings, and it helps the economy of Barbados.  It’s a win-win all around.”

 ”We are excited that the BTA is collaborating with us on this important project,” said Sue Springer, Executive Vice President of BHTA.  “The hotels are very enthusiastic, VisitBarbados.org has a high amount of targeted traffic, and Regatta has been wonderful to work with.  It’s the perfect recipe for success.”

 Since launching on May 31st, Regatta has released a new layout of the booking engine that includes their innovative Concierge tool which allows customers to find their perfect hotel by selecting their desired criteria.  In July, they will launch Activities allowing customers to search and book a variety of tours and attractions.

About the Barbados Tourism Authority (BTA)

The BTA’s mission is to provide leadership in the sustainable development of  Barbados’ tourism industry through the formulation of policy, the provision of timely and quality research; the development and maintenance of industry-wide standards and the facilitation of appropriate product development whilst ensuring maximum economic benefits to  Barbadians.

About the Barbados Hotel & Tourism Association (BHTA)

The Barbados Hotel & Tourism Association was established in 1952.  Their mission is “Bringing people, research knowledge and technology together to resolve challenges of business and to stage a world class experience and performance.” 

About Regatta Travel Solutions Inc.

Founded by Ashwin Kamlani, Regatta Travel Solutions provides specialized online booking technology and marketing tactics for DMOs (Destination Marketing Organizations).  DMOs that use Regatta on their sites can increase demand for their destination, lower the cost paid by suppliers per booking, and increase membership for their organizations. Visit www.hotelinternethelp.com.

HYANNIS, Mass., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Beginning on December 22, 2011, Cape Air’s service to Anguilla will be augmented by a new third round trip flight to and from San Juan on peak days. This 29% increase in capacity complements Cape Air’s existing two daily flights.

 Enhanced Anguilla – San Juan Schedule effective December 22, 2011

 Anguilla to San Juan

                                       Days of

  Depart       Arrive    Flight #     Operation

                                      Mon, Fri,

  8:30 AM      9:50 AM     1454*       Sat, Sun

  9:45 AM     11:05 AM        1450      Daily

  3:05 PM      4:25 PM        1452      Daily

 San Juan to Anguilla

                                   Days of

  Depart    Arrive   Flight #     Operation

  1:25 PM  2:45 PM       1451      Daily

                                  Thu, Fri,

  3:55 PM  5:15 PM     1455*      Sat, Sun

  5:55 PM  7:15 PM       1453      Daily

   *denotes new flight

 Cape Air inaugurated Anguilla service on December 22, 2010 and it was an immediate success. “The Cape Air model of high-frequency flights and easy connections with the mainland is a needed service on Anguilla,” said Andrew Bonney, Cape Air’s Vice President of Planning. “We are thrilled to be at a point already where it makes economic sense to add capacity on Anguilla. With a fleet of 66 aircraft Cape Air can add as many seats as Anguilla needs, in an economically rational and sustainable way,” he added. Cape Air’s Anguilla service neither needs nor receives subsidy.

 Cape Air’s partnerships with JetBlue and Continental Airlines have allowed for widespread distribution, increasing access to Anguilla as a tourism destination. Customers can book flights to Anguilla on the website of San Juan’s largest airline, JetBlue Airways. Cape Air’s codeshare with Continental Airlines puts Anguilla on Continental’s route map. In addition, Cape Air has for more than a decade interlined with American, Continental, Delta, US Airways and United.

About Cape Air:

Now in its 22nd year, Cape Air is one of the largest independent regional airlines in the United States annually flying over 650,000 passengers to destinations around the world including New England, New York, the Caribbean, Florida, the Mid-Atlantic, the Midwest and Micronesia. With a fleet of sixty-four Cessna 402s and two ATR-42s, the employee-owned company operates up to 600 flights per day. Based in Hyannis, Massachusetts, Cape Air also operates flights under the Nantucket Airlines brand. Cape Air is a codeshare partner with Continental Airlines in the Caribbean and American Airlines in the Midwest. In Micronesia Cape Air operates as Continental Connection or United Express. In addition, Cape Air has ticket and baggage agreements with most major airlines. Cape Air’s unique brand of customer service, MOCHA HAGoTDI,* has earned the airline accolades as ‘Best Airline’ on Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard and in the United States Virgin Islands. The airline has been recognized for outstanding philanthropy in the communities it serves and Founder/CEO Dan Wolf was recipient of Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year™ Award.

 * Make our Customers Happy and Have a Good Time Doing It
866-CAPE-AIR
CAPEAIR.COM

Plans call for new jetties and increased depth, along with state-of-the-art container terminal facilities to be jointly developed

 PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, March 16 /PRNewswire/ — Responding to the desperate need for new and expanded port infrastructure to serve earthquake recovery efforts, as well as to address the long-term shipping needs of the country, Haiti-based WIN Group and South Florida-based Sante Holding today announced having reached an agreement to re-develop Terminal Varreux, S.A. in Port-Au-Prince, the largest privately-owned shipping terminal and port facility in Haiti.

 The fourth generation WIN Group is one of the Caribbean’s largest conglomerates, with stakes in multiple industries.  Sante Holding is headed by Charles Towsley, former director of the Port of Miami, and one of the maritime industry’s most respected professionals.

 Sante’s team is partnering with the Rovirosa family, well renowned marine port operators, who currently operate terminals in the Port of Miami and Port Everglades, Florida.  The Rovirosa’s will ensure that all areas of expertise are represented in this new U.S.-Haiti private sector partnership, and will develop, manage and operate the new modern container shipping terminal facility at Terminal Varreux. 

 Terminal Varreux currently consists of multiple berths connected to liquid and dry bulk pumping pipelines. The facility was damaged during the recent earthquake, but quickly repaired in order to allow crucial tanker shipments of fuel to Haiti, as Terminal Varreux receives and stores more than 70% of Haiti’s fuel.

 The redevelopment plans include a new port, additional jetties and a state of the art 150 acre terminal open to all maritime lines looking to efficiently service Haiti.  The expansion will include a modern container and break-bulk shipping terminal and ancillary facilities to service both the short and long-term shipping needs of Haiti.  The agreement also includes remediation and expansion of existing piers. 

 Under the terms of the agreement, WIN Group will retain control of the dry bulk, liquid bulk and petroleum operations, while the new facilities will be operated by the new joint venture.  Feasibility plans are currently being completed with specific project time-frames due to be announced shortly.  

 ”Once completed, this project will not only support Haiti’s ongoing relief efforts, but lay the foundation for the overall modernization of the country’s shipping industry,” said Youri Mevs, managing partner of WIN Group.

 ”The creation of the new port facilities will greatly increase the capacity of Port-au-Prince to accommodate the on-going demand for relief and recovery cargo into Haiti,” adds port development expert and Sante Holding CEO & Chairman, Bruno E. Ramos, AIA.  “Long-term, this is an ideal facility to serve projects such as the West Indies Free Zone, WIN Group’s $45 million industrial park to be developed along with the Soros Economic Development Fund near Port-au-Prince’s impoverished Cite Soleil neighborhood, a project temporarily halted because of the earthquake.

 ”We are extremely pleased to have entered into this agreement with Sante Holding,” concludes Mevs.  “WIN Group’s localized expertise, coupled with Sante’s vast experience in port development and operations, along with the pro-business, pro-private sector movement orchestrated by the Haitian government and encouraged by international finance institutions, creates the ideal launching pad for addressing Haiti’s long-term infrastructure needs.” 

  About WIN Group

The Haiti-based, Mevs family-held WIN Group is one of the Caribbean’s largest conglomerates with stakes in diverse industries such as warehousing and storage, port operations and ethanol processing. WIN’s holdings include SHODECOSA, the largest privately-owned industrial and commercial park in Haiti , Varreux Terminal, the largest privately-owned general cargo shipping terminal, WINECO, the largest liquid bulk storage facility and now, the under-construction West Indies Free Zone, a $45 million, 1.2 million square feet manufacturing park in northern Port-au-Prince , among other enterprises. The fourth generation family has always had a significant impact on the country through its social service-based endeavors, and actively supports numerous organizations providing both immediate relief, and long-term infrastructure development. For additional information, visit www.wingrouponline.com.

 About Sante Holding Corp.

Sante Holding Corp., a Florida based company, along with its subsidiaries and affiliate companies  are  a diversified marine transportation company. The company services and operations encompass expertise and experience in port design, development, management and ship operations at major port facilities world wide. Their container shipping company Sante Shipping Lines offers quality container shipping services for our customers while following established port requirements and maintain dependable transit schedules. Customer satisfaction is our first priority, realizing this can only be accomplished by conducting our business with reliable service, attention to documentation and security. We also regard the protection of the environment as a guiding principle.

Comfort Inn Hotel Will Be First Global Hotel Brand for Haiti in More Than a Decade; Island will Also Be Home to Ascend Collection Member Hotel

 SILVER SPRING, Md., Jan. 6 /PRNewswire/ — While hotel development across the globe has slowed, leading lodging company Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is pleased to announce the future addition of two new Caribbean hotels to its portfolio of more than 6,000 franchised properties worldwide. The new Comfort Inn hotel and Ascend Collection member hotel mark the first-ever Choice-brand properties for the island of Haiti, further expanding the great Choice Hotels lodging options for travelers across the Caribbean. The Comfort Inn hotel which will open in 2010 will mark the first global hotel brand that the island of Haiti has hosted in more than a decade.

“Choice is extremely proud to take a leadership position in revitalizing Haiti’s tourism product,” said Brian Parker, vice president of emerging markets and new business development for Choice Hotels. “We are equally excited to work with a company the caliber of SIMACT to bring two of our brands to the island.”  

 Both hotels will be located in Haiti’s historic township of Jacmel, known as the island’s cultural center thanks to its popular carnival festivities and arts, music and film festivals. The Comfort Inn hotel will feature 32 guest rooms with breathtaking views of the shores of the Caribbean Sea, featuring all the amenities travelers can expect from Comfort Inn hotels, including free breakfast and free high-speed Internet access.

 The newly-built luxury Ascend Collection member hotel will offer 120 elegantly-appointment guestrooms and is planned as part of the area’s new Belle Rive development project, which will also include a residential community, retail, dining, entertainment, recreational and marina facilities. This Ascend Collection member hotel will be the second Caribbean location for the membership program after its first location in the region — Le Consulat hotel of San Juan, Puerto Rico — opened in late 2008.

 ”Our Ascend Collection program is an excellent membership opportunity for upscale independent hotels and we are thrilled that the Caribbean is at the forefront of our international expansion,” said Kevin Lewis, brand president of upscale and extended stay for Choice Hotels.

 ”The new collaborative relationship between Choice Hotels and SIMACT will have a significantly positive impact on the burgeoning tourism industry of the southeastern coast of Haiti,” said Lesly Kernisant, president of SIMACT, owner of the new Comfort Inn hotel and Ascend Collection member hotel.

 Choice Hotels currently boasts 9 Caribbean properties, a total of 815 guestrooms, in the Bahamas, Cayman Island, Curacao, Puerto Rico, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Ascend Collection is an elite network of Historic, Unique and Boutique member hotels that made its debut at the end of 2008 and now has more than 30 hotels throughout the United States, Canada and now, the Caribbean. For more information on Choice Hotels, visit choicehotels.com.

About SIMACT

SIMACT, Inc. is a New York-based company with a range of investment interests that are focused upon the Republic of Haiti. SIMACT (Societe Immobiliere d’Agriculture, de Commerce, et de Tourisme) was founded in 1996 by a group of Haitian professionals, initially focusing upon real estate development opportunities. The company, which began with six investors, now has 51 shareholders. It has expanded the original vision of the founders and now encompasses investment and ownership in several key areas of enterprise – tourism, mining, financial services, and agriculture. With a capitalization investment in excess of $5,000,000, the company is now poised to take full advantage of its position as one of the most dynamic and progressive American companies engaged in business undertakings in Haiti. SIMACT is currently engaged in several exciting new initiatives in the areas of tourism, mining, and financial services that are based upon the platform of development and success that the company has experienced to date.

 About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,000 hotels, representing more than 485,000 rooms in the United States and more than 35 other countries and territories. As of September 30, 2009, more than 700 hotels are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 59,000 rooms, and more than 100 hotels, representing approximately 9,400 rooms, are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in more than 20 other countries and territories. The company’s Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests worldwide. In addition, via its Ascend Collection membership program, travelers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean have upscale lodging options at historic, boutique and unique hotels.

 Additional corporate information may be found on the Choice Hotels International, Inc. Web site, which may be accessed at www.choicehotels.com.

 Choice Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn and Ascend Collection are proprietary trademarks and service marks of Choice Hotels International.

(C) 2009 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved.

- Offers the latest possible afternoon pick-up times available in the industry

- Latin American trade with the USA and Europe increased by 12.9% and 10.2% respectively

PLANTATION, Fla., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company, introduces faster morning delivery choices as early as 9:00 a.m. to major business centers in Europe with DHL’s exclusive money-back guarantee(1). The new DHL EXPRESS 9:00 service, with deliveries by 9:00 a.m. to European destinations, compliments existing DHL EXPRESS 10:30 service to the USA and DHL EXPRESS 12:00 service to Europe, USA and intra-Latin America.

“The digital influence on international trade drives quicker decisions, impatience and subsequently extra emphasis on earlier deadlines. Customers can relax knowing that DHL has in-house customs expertise to expedite such mission-critical deliveries, which fly ‘first class’ on our airplanes to keep important projects on tight deadlines,” said Roger Crook, CEO of DHL Express Americas.

According to statistics from the Latin Business Chronicle magazine, both Latin American imports and exports from and to the United States and Europe grew by double digits during 2008.   The United States continues to be the primary trade partner of the region, increasing exports to Latin America by 18.5% and imports by 9%.   European exports and imports to the region also grew, increasing 11.6% and 9% respectively.

DHL Express guaranteed(1) morning delivery services are available in Latin America, Canada and the Caribbean. The service offers customers the latest possible afternoon pick-up times in the industry, increased visibility and control of time-definite delivery times, real-time web tracking, proactive delivery and status notifications via e-mail, with the security and safety reliability that has become synonymous with DHL service.

For more information, visit http://www.dhl.com or contact your local DHL office.

DHL – The Logistics company for the world

DHL is the global market leader in the logistics industry and “The Logistics company for the world”. DHL commits its expertise in international express, air and ocean freight, road and rail transportation, contract logistics and international mail services. A global network composed of more than 220 countries and territories and 310,000 employees worldwide offers customers superior service quality and local knowledge to satisfy their supply chain requirements. DHL accepts its social responsibility by supporting climate protection, disaster management and education.

DHL is part of Deutsche Post DHL. The Group generated revenue of more than 54 billion euros in 2008.

(1) DHL’s money back guarantee terms and conditions apply

SOURCE   DHL

– Company’s innovative services play an active role in growing global trade



– Strong customer focus key to industry-leading solutions



– Spirit of innovation to see the company through to the next decades



PLANTATION, Fla., Sept. 28 /PRNewswire/ — Citing the company’s pioneering spirit, strong customer focus and critical role in facilitating global trade, Frank Appel, CEO Deutsche Post DHL, recounted the secret of DHL’s success as the world’s leading express and logistics provider marked its 40th anniversary on September 25, 2009.

“”In 1969, three men set out to do the impossible and conquered the moon. A few months later, Adrian Dalsey, Larry Hillblom and Robert Lynn founded DHL and made the world a little smaller,”" Appel said. “”DHL pioneered the international express industry, making it possible for documents to reach recipients overnight instead of a few days.”"

The express company quickly grew to encompass global forwarding and supply chain management, through the strategic integration of leading forwarder Danzas Air & Ocean in 2002 and supply chain/logistics expert Exel in 2005. DHL was thus able to offer a comprehensive suite of services through its unparalleled global network that spans over 220 countries and territories. Today, DHL is the leading industry provider in its various segments: No 1 in Air and Ocean Freight, No 1 in International Express, No 1 in Contract Logistics and No 2 in European Road Freight.

By initially offering a revolutionary service