Author Archive
17 Jul, 2012
Full Details: Thailand’s Tourism Marketing Action Plan 2013
Bangkok, July 16 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand has unveiled a series of strategies designed to maintain Thailand’s brand image, marketing profile and visitor arrivals in a world of unprecedented change. Announced today after the conclusion of the TAT’s annual action planning meeting, the strategies are designed to ensure that the travel and tourism […]
more…17 Jul, 2012
U.S. Violates WTO Rule, Misuses Trade Protection Measures
Beijing, July 16, 2012 – China and the United States will begin official negotiations from July 18 to July 19, regarding the case that China had reported the U.S. anti-subsidy measures on 22 exported products from China to the dispute settlement mechanism of World Trade Organization (WTO). China had proposed negotiations with the United States […]
more…17 Jul, 2012
India Monitors Food Impact as Monsoon Rains Play “Hide-and-Seek”
New Delhi, Ministry of Agriculture, 16-July, 2012 – The Agriculture Minister Mr Sharad Pawar today hailed the agricultural research system for the key role it has played in increasing farm production over the years. Recounting the shift in Indian agriculture from the era of famine and food imports to the present era of surplus, Mr […]
more…17 Jul, 2012
India To Push Development of Inland Waterways
NEW DELHI, Prime Minister’s Office, 16-July, 2012 – The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has been pushing for greater private investment in inland waterways, an area of considerable importance. Since January, PMO has identified and fast-tracked implementation of key projects in the National Waterways – 1, 2 and 3 (NW – 1,2,3). These are the Varanasi-Haldia […]
more…17 Jul, 2012
Americans Must Deal With Their Double Standards
WASHINGTON D.C. – Ralph Nader is without a doubt one of the truly transformational figures in contemporary American history. We drink cleaner water, breathe purer air, drive safer cars, and are better protected at work and at play, because of the movement he led. Ever the innovator, Ralph has taken on a new challenge: to […]
more…16 Jul, 2012
Campaign Targets US$ 870bn/year Transnational Organized Crime Business
16 July 2012 – UNODC today launched a new global awareness-raising campaign emphasizing the size and cost of transnational organized crime. Profiling this multibillion dollar a year threat to peace, human security and prosperity, the campaign illustrates the key financial and social costs of this international problem through a new public service announcement video and […]
more…16 Jul, 2012
UK Charity Seeks To Curb Alcohol Abuse/Misuse at Olympics
(PRWEB UK) 16 July 2012 – The national charity, which wants to achieve a society free from problem alcohol and drug use, thinks it’s important for people to have access to good quality advice at sites including football stadia and Olympic venues where alcohol is being sold. Alcohol has become synonymous with celebrations and sport […]
more…16 Jul, 2012
Efforts to Tackle Global Obesity Shaping a New Investment Megatrend
NEW YORK & LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Increasing efforts to tackle obesity over the coming decades will form an important new investment theme for fund managers, according to a new BofA Merrill Lynch Global Research report called “Globesity – The Global Fight Against Obesity.” “Global obesity is a mega-investment theme for the next 25 years and beyond. Obesity […]
more…16 Jul, 2012
Investigative Report Says Security Firms Contributing to Global Insecurity
With the travel & tourism industry facing soaring costs of security, an investigative report issued last month by the New York-based Global Policy Forum warns that international security contractors are operating in an environment of total impunity and secrecy that may be worsening the situation. Entitled, “Dangerous Partnership: Private Military & Security Companies and the […]
more…16 Jul, 2012
Global Banks Face Domino Risk, “Contrarian” Finance Editors Warn
New York, NY (PRWEB) July 15, 2012 – In a recent Investment Contrarians article, editor Danny Esposito comments how amazing it is that many economists out there continue to hold onto the notion that should a financial crisis take place in Europe, the U.S. will not be affected. Esposito believes the big banks in the […]
more…16 Jul, 2012
Key Global Issues That Will See €8bn Spent On European Research
Brussels, 12 July 2012 (EU Media release) – The EU’s latest call for research proposals aims to stimulate innovation for growth and jobs. About €8.1bn is available in 2013 for world-class research – key to returning the EU to growth and closing the innovation gap with its main trade competitors, the US and Japan. Research […]
more…15 Jul, 2012
China’s Economy: Glass Half Full, Not Half Empty
Beijing, 2012-07-14 – Media fanfare about China’s economic slowdown, though somewhat exaggerated, shows the high hopes that global investors have pinned on the world’s second largest economy, especially with the United States and Europe still struggling with their debt problems. Before China released its growth figures for the first half of the year on Friday, […]
more…15 Jul, 2012
Taoism Also Part of China’s “Soft Power”
Beijing, July 11, 2012 – Chinese culture enjoys increasing influence in the world. What makes it so attractive? What are the challenges facing it? Over the past eight years, the Confucius Institute has made remarkable achievements in promoting the Chinese culture and language worldwide. From the Mississippi to the Nile, the Chinese learning craze is […]
more…15 Jul, 2012
China’s Int’l Investment Position Reaches US$1.79 Trln
BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua) — China’s net international investment position at the end of March reached 1.79 trillion U.S. dollars, the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) announced Friday. The net international investment position measures the difference between a country’s external assets and liabilities. At the end of March, China’s external financial assets totaled 4.89 […]
more…15 Jul, 2012
Olympics Uniforms: Will US Pay The Price To Be ‘Patriotic’?
Beijing, 2012-07-14 – Reports that the pride of America will be wearing uniforms that were made in China at the Olympic Games in London next month have produced the time-honored response from China-bashing politicians in the United States. “This action on the part of the US Olympic Committee is symbolic of a disastrous trade policy […]
more…15 Jul, 2012
China: U.S. Sows Seeds Of Discord In South China Sea
Beijing, 2012-07-13 — By calling for all parties to engage in talks to resolve the South China Sea disputes, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has once again demonstrated that the United States is trying to interfere in the maritime disputes that only involve China and a few members of the Association of Southeast Asian […]
more…15 Jul, 2012
Global Workforce Study Finds Most U.S. Workers Struggling to Cope with Tough Workplace Situations
NEW YORK, 11 July 2012, (BUSINESS WIRE) — As doubts reemerge about the strength of economic recovery in the U.S., a new Global Workforce Study by global professional services company Towers Watson (NYSE, NASDAQ: TW) reveals that almost two-thirds (63%) of U.S. workers are not fully engaged in their work and are struggling to cope […]
more…15 Jul, 2012
Study Shows Women are Primary Breadwinners in U.S.
NEWARK, N.J, .July 11, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) — The majority of women have emerged as primary breadwinners, whether they like it or not, according to Prudential Financial’s (NYSE:PRU) latest biennial study on the “Financial Experience & Behaviors Among Women.” The study, in its 12th year, finds that 53 percent of the more than 1,400 women […]
more…15 Jul, 2012
$800 Million Project to Link 4,200 Indian Villages to Services & Markets
MANILA, (ADB Media release) 12 July 2012 – A new four-part $800 million investment program from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will help build 9,000 kilometers of rural roads in five Indian states, connecting 4,200 far-flung communities year-round to crucial markets and services. “Thousands of kilometers of highways between major cities criss-cross India but building […]
more…12 Jul, 2012
New Masterplan Boosts Aboriginal Tourism Businesses in Top End Australia
Arnhem Land, 9 July 2012 – The Yolngu people of Arnhem Land are embarking on a bold plan to create thriving Indigenous-owned tourism businesses across Australia’s spectacular Top End, boosted today with the announcement of a Federal Government grant of $825,000. The Yolngu Cultural Tourism Masterplan is the first of its kind in Australia and […]
more…12 Jul, 2012
Early Warning to Global Tourism: U.S. Congress Pushes War With Iran
Jul. 09, 2012 – In electing Barack Obama in 2008, the American people brought into the White House an outspoken opponent of the U.S. invasion of Iraq who not only withdrew combat forces from that country but promised to “change the mindset” — the idea that the United States could unilaterally make war against oil-rich […]
more…12 Jul, 2012
China: Negative Influence of US’ Asia Strategy Must Be Eliminated
Beijing, July 11, 2012 – In recent years, cooperation among East Asian countries has maintained a flourishing momentum. The peace, stability and development are common wishes of countries of the region. One major purpose for the economically-gloomy United States to declare its “returning to the Asia-Pacific Region” strategy in this period is to share the […]
more…11 Jul, 2012
Lloyds Bank Study Pitches “Happiness Impact” of UK Olympics
London, UK (PRWEB UK) 10 July 2012 – A report commissioned by Lloyds Banking Group on the Economic Impact of the UK 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games, also includes a chapter assessing the impact of the events on UK residents’ happiness. The report, covering the period from the winning of the bid in 2005, through […]
more…10 Jul, 2012
Deutsche Post DHL Study on “The World in 2050” Outlines Five Future Scenarios
Bangkok, 10 July 2012: With its release of the study of the future, “Delivering Tomorrow: Logistics 2050”, Deutsche Post DHL is taking a far-reaching look into the future of trade, business and society. The study examines five different scenarios of life in the year 2050. These five visions of the future are based on a […]
more…10 Jul, 2012
Australia Appoints First Airline Customer Advocate to Address Complaints
Canberra, (Minister of Infrastructure & Transport), 08 July 2012 – Australia has appointed its first Airline Customer Advocate to look into complaints by airline customers. The position will be jointly funded by the Australian airlines themselves. The following is the full text of the statement by the Minister Anthony Albanese announcing the launch: Today I […]
more…10 Jul, 2012
Financial Crises and The Future of Global and Asian Banking: Strategy for Known-Unknown
Speech at Sasin Bangkok Forum 2012 Plenary Session , July 9, 2012 Theme: “Strategy for Known-Unknown”. The critical success factors are 3 Cs: Coordination of regulators, Commitment forged by Inclusiveness, and Communal responsibility to restore market mechanism as a pillar of governance and financial discipline. Good morning. It is an honor to join all of […]
more…9 Jul, 2012
China Creates New Visa Category to Attract Overseas Talent
Beijing, July 09, 2012 – On June 30, the 11th Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, China’s top legislature, passed a new Exit-Entry Administration Law at its 27th meeting. One of the highlights of the new law is a new visa category titled “talent introduction” which aims to attract talented individuals from overseas. The […]
more…7 Jul, 2012
UN Food Agency Blasts Human Cost of Speculation in Commodities, Crops
6 July 2012, Rome (UN Food and Agriculture Organisation Media Release) – The world needs to take a hard look at speculation on the financial markets and its potential impact on food price volatility, FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva said today at a high-level debate on the issue at FAO Headquarters in Rome. “While […]
more…7 Jul, 2012
Where Do Women Feel Safe Walking At Night? Gallup Poll Has a Few Surprises
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Gallup Poll) 6 July 2012 — Crime rates typically drop as countries develop socially and economically, partly because their capacity to enforce laws improves and poverty declines. But Gallup data from surveys in 143 countries in 2011 suggest men and women often do not equally share the bolstered sense of security that these […]
more…7 Jul, 2012
Use of No-Fly List Puts Another U.S. Muslim in Extra-Judicial Exile
I hope that someday we will all look back in shame at how routinely the United States once barred traveling American Muslims from returning to their country. But while that day may be far off, Ali Ahmed serves as just the latest example of how the misguided and illegal use of the no-fly list imposes […]
more…6 Jul, 2012
Dr Mahathir, Israeli Columnist to Speak at Palestine Rights Confab in Bangkok
Bangkok – A meeting of the United Nations committee on Palestinian Rights, due to take pace in Bangkok between July 10-11, will give the Asia-Pacific travel & tourism industry a major chance to pursue ways to visit Palestine without seeking a visa from the occupying Israeli authorities. Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad will join […]
more…5 Jul, 2012
How US Uses Sanctions to Hold the World Hostage
Beijing, July 05, 2012 – The U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton recently said as China and Singapore have greatly reduced their oil exports from Iran, the United States have decided to give the two countries exemption on Iran oil sanction. The observing period is six months and extendable. The recent situation of the Middle […]
more…5 Jul, 2012
Bengali Film Awards Bash in Thailand Fumbles With A String Of Indian “Faux Pas”
PATTAYA, Thailand — An awards ceremony held on July 1 to celebrate the best of Bengali cinema instead collapsed in a string of self-confessed “faux pas” to the extent where one of the co-sponsors from Kolkata TV publicly berated the Master of Ceremonies to find a more professional person for next year’s awards. Amidst continuous […]
more…4 Jul, 2012
Eurozone Crisis Has Little Impact on European Arrivals to Thailand
Bangkok — In spite of the Eurozone crisis, visitor arrivals to Thailand from all the European countries have shown a 10.9% increase in January-May 2012, according to the latest figures released by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The arrivals of 2,690,783 from Europe contributed to a total visitor arrivals count of 8,871,930 in the […]
more…4 Jul, 2012
New EU App Gives European Summer Travellers Instant Access To Their Rights
Brussels, 4 July 2012 (EU Press Release) – Passengers stranded at airports or awaiting missing luggage may now use a smartphone application to check their rights immediately and on the spot. Just in time for the summer holidays, the European Commission has launched an application for smartphones which covers air and rail transport and works […]
more…4 Jul, 2012
Travelers Left Behind More Than 8,000 Mobile Devices at Top U.S. Airports
July 03, 2012 – ADDISON, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Credant Technologies, a company specialising in data protection, today announced the results of their second survey of top airports in the United States. In the last year, travelers left behind 8,016 mobile devices at seven of the largest airports in the country, including: Chicago O’Hare, Denver International, San Francisco […]
more…4 Jul, 2012
Thoughts of an American Muslim on Independence Day
[Nihad Awad is national executive director for the Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the U.S.’s largest Muslim civil liberties organization. He can be contacted at: nawad@cair.com] As we mark one of history’s most triumphant acts of liberty, I want to share with you some of the many things America’s Muslims are doing to preserve […]
more…4 Jul, 2012
Indian Domestic Tourism Pegged at 850 Million Visits in 2011, Up 13.8%
New Delhi, 03-July, 2012 – The number of domestic tourist visits (DTVs) to the States/ UTs during 2011 was 851 million as compared to 748 million in 2010 and 669 million in 2009. During 2011, the number of domestic tourist visits to States/UTs registered an increase of 13.8% over 2010 as compared to increase of […]
more…4 Jul, 2012
The Great American Mirage
2012-07-03 – In September 1998, during the depths of the Asian financial crisis, Alan Greenspan, the US Federal Reserve’s chairman at the time, had a simple message: the US is not an oasis of prosperity in an otherwise struggling world. Greenspan’s point is even closer to the mark today than it was back then. Yes, […]
more…3 Jul, 2012
PATA Reshuffles the Deck – Again!
Bangkok – The Pacific Asia Travel Association has undergone another reshuffling of the deck with the imminent departure of Stu Lloyd, Senior Director – Marketing and Membership Services, and the appointment of Sheila Leong as Chief Operating Officer, effectively making her the Number Two in the organisation. The departure of Mr. Lloyd as of July […]
more…30 Jun, 2012
Marketing Survey: Millennials Unlikely To Support Wine-makers That “Try Too Hard”
Napa, CA (PRWEB) June 29, 2012 – Millennials show the least interest towards Millennial targeted wines according to a new national survey conducted by Invictus Marketing, a Napa based interactive marketing agency. The 2012 Millennial Targeted Wines survey report is issued publicly and a copy can be downloaded directly at the Invictus Marketing website. The […]
more…29 Jun, 2012
New “Beijing Treaty” Firms Up Copyright Protection for Audiovisual Performances
Beijing, June 26, 2012 – The diplomatic conference to finalize a new treaty for audiovisual performers was concluded on June 26, 2012 as negotiators from member states of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) signed the Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances (BTAP) – so-named in recognition of the city that hosted the final round of […]
more…29 Jun, 2012
Stay Out of World Heritage Sites, Global Mining, Energy Giants Warned
26 June 2012 — The global rush for energy and minerals is likely to tempt many multinational corporations to venture into World Heritage Sites, and a report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) warns that they do so at the risk of their reputations and public image. The report, the result of […]
more…29 Jun, 2012
UN Enlists Fashion Industry to Help Fight Poverty
United Nations, (UN News Centre) – 28 June 2012 – The United Nations today announced its partnership with the fashion industry to fight poverty and provide assistance to millions of women and children worldwide through the Fashion for Development (F4D) initiative. “The fashion industry in the past several years has redefined how to market, how […]
more…29 Jun, 2012
Parents: 5 Tips To Protect Kids From Abuse And Violence
San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) June 29, 2012 – Many parents are overwhelmed by fear for their kids, asking how they can protect their children from people like Jerry Sandusky, a former Penn State coach who held a position of respect and power in his community and was recently convicted of 45 counts of child abuse, […]
more…29 Jun, 2012
As Eurozone Crisis Bites, EC Targets Tax Fraud And Evasion
Brussels, 27 June 2012, European Commission Press release – Minimum sanctions for tax crimes, a cross-border tax identification number, an EU tax-payer’s charter and stronger common measures against tax havens. These are just some of the concrete ideas that the Commission has put forward today to improve the fight against tax fraud and evasion in […]
more…29 Jun, 2012
New Aviation Procedures Published to Mitigate Impact of Volcanic Eruptions
MONTREAL, 26 June 2012 (ICAO Press Release) – The International Volcanic Ash Task Force (IVATF), a special multidisciplinary group established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in response to the Eyjafjallajökull eruption in April 2010, has delivered a series of practical tools and recommendations to significantly mitigate the impact of future volcanic events on international […]
more…29 Jun, 2012
China Offers US$15 Billion for Latin America Development
SANTIAGO, June 27 (Xinhua) — Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao delivered a speech at the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and Caribbean (ECLAC) on Tuesday. In order to deepen strategic relations with the region, he announced the creation of a cooperation fund for the region with an initial input of US$5 billion to promote, […]
more…29 Jun, 2012
South-South Trade Surging, Travel Sure to Follow
Geneva, 26 June 2012 (UNCTAD News Release) – South-South trade has grown dramatically in the past decade to about a quarter of the value of world trade, says UNCTAD’s newly-launched South-South Trade Monitor. The online publication, to be issued twice a year, monitors trade among developing countries. As trade is a precursor of travel trends, […]
more…29 Jun, 2012
U.S. Mayors: “Papers Please” Provision Will Pose Ethnic, Racial Profiling Challenge
Washington, D.C. June 25, 2012 – The following statement was issued by U.S. Conference of Mayors President, Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter in reaction to the Supreme Court’s Arizona v. United States decision Immigration Law, also known as the ‘Papers Please’ Provision. As with all such statements, it is diplomatically and carefully worded in order […]
more…28 Jun, 2012
Africa Admits It Was “Ambushed” at Rio+20 Talks
ADDIS ABABA — The UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has admitted that African leaders lost the battle at the negotiating table of the recent Rio+20 Earth summit. An official announcement posted on the ECA website on June 25 says frankly that the final outcome document, “The Future We Want”, only looks ahead towards creating […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
China Advocates South America Trade Deal
2012-06-27, (China Daily) – A free trade deal between China and Mercosur, the South American trade bloc, was proposed on Monday by Premier Wen Jiabao. Analysts said that the deal, if signed, will carry a number of benefits for the highly complementary economies. “We share extensive common interests and we have great potential for further […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
10 Tips For a Better Night’s Sleep
(PRWEB) June 26, 2012 – Not getting enough sleep can leave individuals feeling tired, less-focused, depressed and more‚ but with busier work schedules and more daily stresses, many Americans are finding it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Aware of this growing problem, http://www.liporidpm.com presents the top secrets to a better […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
China to Slash Work Permit Periods for Foreigners
2012-06-27 (China Daily) – The minimum length for residential work permits for foreigners will be slashed from 180 days to just 90, according to the latest draft of a new immigration law currently under review. The draft law on exit-entry administration is receiving its third review from the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
2012 Shaping Up as Worst Year Ever for Journalists
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, Jun 25 2012 (IPS) – It’s the type of honour roll that journalists would prefer not to be on. But as an emotional Allison Bethel-McKenzie read out the names of the 72 journalists who have made that grim list so far this year, even Trinidad and Tobago’s president, George Maxwell Richards, […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
Chinese Middle Class Key to Consumption
Beijing, 2012-06-26 (China Daily) – Economists have been talking for years about the need to boost domestic consumption to achieve more balanced and sustainable economic growth. To be sure, consumer spending, especially in the larger cities, has been increasing rapidly in the past decade or so. But the rate of increase has persistently lagged behind […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
China’s Building Boom: Symbol of Affluence or Trap of Luxury?
Beijing, June 26, 2012 (Edited and translated by People’s Daily Online) – I just returned from Shenyang a few days ago and learned that Shenyang is planning the construction project to prepare for the next National Games. One day later, I was told that an indoor stadium, which had cost 800 million yuan and was […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
China Urges ASEAN To Be Independent
Beijing, June 25, 2012 (China Daily) – China has urged members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations not to be a bystander or “a tool of major powers” to cope with the new challenges in the current global political and economic atmosphere. “ASEAN should exercise its independent judgment to move this region forward. If […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
Why Are Chinese Listed Companies Withdrawing From US Market?
Beijing, June 26, 2012, (People’s Daily Online) – Alibaba.com Limited officially delisted from the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited on June 20, 2012. Delisting seems incredible but the Alibaba.com Limited was not the only one choosing to withdraw from the stock market. On Nov. 2, 2011, Harbin Electric Inc. officially withdrew from the NASDAQ […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
Chinese Experts: U.S. Economy Cannot Survive on “Cardiac Stimulants”
Beijing, June 25, 2012 (People’s Daily Online) — The market is paying extremely close attention to the question that whether the United States will launch a third round of quantitative easing (QE3) soon. The Federal Reserve is still holding the conference, but the market’s anticipation on the QE3 has strengthened. On June 19, the three […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
China’s Gender Ratio Imbalance Set to be Big Problem for “Leftover Men”
Beijing, June 26, 2012 – China’s sex ratio at birth has been rising in the past 30 years. The sex ratio at birth is also known as newborn infant sex ratio. Under natural circumstances, the ratio of every 100 newborn girls to 103 to 107 newborn boys is normal. As the death rate of boys […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
Top 50 Most Valuable Latin American Brands 2012
NEW YORK, June 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Millward Brown, in conjunction with BrandAnalytics and WPP, today announce the inaugural BrandZ Top 50 Most Valuable Latin American Brands. The value of the BrandZ Latam Top 50 is dominated by retail, financial, communication, beer and energy brands. Petrobras, the Brazilian energy giant, topped the ranking with a […]
more…27 Jun, 2012
RehabTech Asia Expo Aims to Improve Quality of Life for Disabled and Aged
Singapore – Asia’s first and only trade event for the assistive technology (AT), integrated care and rehabilitation engineering (RE) industry will be held from 27 February to 1 March 2013 at Singapore EXPO Convention & Exhibition Centre. The co-organisers are Fiera Milano S.p.A. and Singex Exhibition Ventures Pte Ltd., supported by Singapore Exhibition & Convention […]
more…26 Jun, 2012
Chinese Company Develops New Technology to Evaluate Digital Advertising
BEIJING, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ — Since the advent of the new media, most marketers have fancied going digital with their campaigns. Investments in digital advertising are increasing in leaps and bounds, though still small compared to traditional TV advertising. Despite increasing at a faster pace, investment in digital media is challenged by key concerns […]
more…26 Jun, 2012
“Radical Openness,” Theme of TEDGlobal 2012 Conference
EDINBURGH, Scotland, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — TED, the nonprofit devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading, opens its annual Europe-based TEDGlobal conference today in Edinburgh, Scotland. The conference, this year themed “Radical Openness,” shares the same format as its twin event in Long Beach, CA: inspired leaders, thinkers, makers, and performers from around the globe take […]
more…26 Jun, 2012
Indonesia To Host Major Conference On Disasters In Asia
BANGKOK, 26 June, 2012 (ISDR Press Release) – The Indonesian government today announced details of the Fifth Asian Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction which it will host in October as the region counts the cost of record-breaking disaster losses over the last year. Indonesia made disaster risk reduction a national priority following the 2004 […]
more…25 Jun, 2012
U.S. Pilots Seek “Level Playing Field” to Compete Against Foreign Airlines
WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–In a white paper released on June 12 titled “Leveling the Playing Field for U.S. Airlines and Their Employees,” the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) outlines the clear solutions that the U.S. government must pursue to create a strong U.S. airline industry and fairly position U.S. airlines and their employees to compete and […]
more…25 Jun, 2012
European Giants Will Wipe Out Local Firms In ASEAN Exhibitions Boom
BANGKOK – The rapid expansion of European exhibition conglomerates in the ASEAN and Asian regions could drive local exhibition companies to “extinction,” the head of the Asian Federation of Exhibition & Convention Associations (AFECA) warned last week. Speaking at the first Thailand MICE International Forum (TMIF) 2012 on June 21, Mr. Edward Liu said that […]
more…25 Jun, 2012
PATA Finance Chief Says Adieu After Three Difficult Years
Bangkok – Ms. Nawarat Khamsai has resigned as the first Chief Financial Officer of the Pacific Asia Travel Association, effective July 31. Although she described her move as being nothing beyond a normal completion of a three-year term of duty, it will create further image problems for the financially-beleaguered association as it seeks to maintain […]
more…24 Jun, 2012
As democracies become dictatorships, what future for democracy?
Originally Published: 24 June 2012 One of the most important geopolitical trends in the emerging world order is the slow conversion of democracies into dictatorships, even while they pretend to be defenders of democracy or, still worse, delude themselves into thinking they are defending democracy. As the U.S. government, the self-appointed curator and exporter of […]
more…21 Jun, 2012
Most Wanted Features of Dream Aircraft: No Kids, No Kicks
EDINBURGH, Scotland, June 19, 2012–(BUSINESS WIRE) — The new Boeing 787 Dreamliner is set to take to the UK skies this August, and promises passengers a more pleasurable flying experience with larger windows and LED lighting, but a new survey of over 1000 passengers by Europe’s leading flight comparison site Skyscanner reveals what people really […]
more…21 Jun, 2012
New Yorkers Get Help Cutting Valet Parking Wait Times
NEW YORK, June 19, 2012 — (BUSINESS WIRE)–Central Parking System, Inc. today announced it has expanded its relationship with Zingle and its text-for-your-car solution. Zingle’s customized solution for Central Parking, known as TEXT N GO, which allows customers to text their valet ticket number and then receive an automatic text response confirming when their car […]
more…21 Jun, 2012
WorldPay: 1.5% of Airline Online Booking Revenue Lost to Fraud
SAN FRANCISCO June 19, 2012 — (BUSINESS WIRE)–Globally, 66% of airline merchants are seeing fraud levels stay the same or increase as they lose 1.5% of booking revenue to fraudulent transactions, according to the global Perfect Passenger Payment insights report, commissioned by WorldPay. Worryingly, this could be set to increase, with 29% of airlines reporting […]
more…21 Jun, 2012
Denver Airport to Create “Largest Digital Experience” for Advertisers
DENVER, June 19, 2012, (BUSINESS WIRE) — Clear Channel Airports announced it will implement a first-of-its kind digital advertising program at Denver International Airport, the fifth-busiest U.S. airport and eleventh-busiest airport in the world. The Clear Channel Airports program will place Denver International Airport at the forefront of digital video advertising. The installation plan includes […]
more…21 Jun, 2012
U.S. Consumers See Airline Service Improving, Fast Food Growing as Economy Falls
ANN ARBOR, Mich., June 19, 2012 — (BUSINESS WIRE)–Major airlines are doing a better job of satisfying their passengers this year, according to a report released today by the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). At 67 (on a scale of 0 to 100), customer satisfaction with the airline industry matches its best level in a […]
more…21 Jun, 2012
Worldwide Spend on Security Products and Services Tops $19 Billion
LONDON, June 20, 2012, (BUSINESS WIRE)–Globally small and medium business Security Market (on-premise and cloud) spend is expected to experience an overall compounded annual growth rate of over 10% for the period of 2011 through 2016. Cloud security services currently accounts for nearly 17% of this total spending and is projected to increase to 24% […]
more…21 Jun, 2012
Maritz Poll: Online Consumers Want Companies to Listen, Respond
ST. LOUIS, June 07, 2012, (BUSINESS WIRE)–With an ever-growing number of publicly accessible online communication choices available to consumers, a recent Maritz Research Consumer Preferences study shows consumers overwhelmingly want their voices to be heard by companies via the web. They expect companies to be listening and the study also reveals that 85 percent of […]
more…21 Jun, 2012
Global Study Finds Brands Can Capitalise on “New Mom” Movement
CANNES, France, June 20, 2012, (BUSINESS WIRE) — Yahoo! (NASDAQ:YHOO), the premier digital media company, and Starcom MediaVest Group, shared findings from their year-long, global study, ‘Brave New Moms: Navigating Technology’s Impact on Family Time,’ at the 2012 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. The study revealed that across generations, age and countries, 84% of […]
more…20 Jun, 2012
Free Download: Cross-Border Stats Highlighted at Mekong Tourism Forum 2012
Chiang Rai, 12 June 2012 — Cross-border tourism is set to be one of the primary beneficiaries of the growing overland connectivity between the Greater Mekong Subregion countries (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Yunnan Province of Southern China). The six countries share the unique advantage of being all land-linked, which means that road and […]
more…19 Jun, 2012
Myanmar Tourism Industry Warned About Downsides of Gold Rush
CHIANG RAI: The Myanmar tourism industry heard more warnings at the June 13-14 Mekong Tourism Forum to beware the downsides of the tourism gold-rush. Industry stalwarts stressed that they were well aware of the emerging issues, and offered assurances that every effort would be made to do things right. Marking the 20th anniversary since the […]
more…19 Jun, 2012
Thai Royal Projects Chief: Global Rich-Poor Income Gap Could Trigger Next World War
CHIANG RAI, North Thailand: In a powerful, historic speech at the Mekong Tourism Forum on June 13, a man who has played a key role in one of the world’s most successful opium-eradication projects warned of another world war if the global rich-poor income gap is not addressed. Mr. Disnadda Diskul, Secretary-General of Thailand’s Mae […]
more…13 Jun, 2012
New “No Sweat” Design Allows Commuters To Run, Bike or Walk to Work
Manchester, MA (PRWEB) June 12, 2012 – For people that would love to ride a bike or run to work but can’t find a place to shower, change, or secure their gear and get ready for the work day, there is a solution! GreenSpace has pioneered a project that promises to revolutionize the workday commute. […]
more…13 Jun, 2012
Global Students Compete To Achieve Change in Volvo Adventure Awards
Rockleigh, N.J. (PRWEB) June 12, 2012 — Students from all over the world united in Gothenburg at the Volvo Adventure Awards to battle it out to be crowned winner of the world-class environmental education programme. After experiencing tough competition across more than 45 countries, just 12 teams remained to fight for the coveted Volvo Adventure […]
more…13 Jun, 2012
Savvy Summer Travelers Find Free Ways to Communicate on Phones, Devices
Marina del Rey, CA (PRWEB) June 12, 2012 — Summer travelers agree that it’s costly to communicate on the road and are looking for alternatives to save money, according to a new survey by leading free mobile communications app, textPlus. Over 500 respondents shared their habits when it comes to communicating while traveling both domestically […]
more…13 Jun, 2012
Female Traders Surge in Money Markets, Do More Research, Take Less Risk
LONDON, June 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Figures show that the average annual profit of the top 20 female traders with City Index is £271,225. Who are they and how do they do it? Since 2001, the number of female traders opening accounts with City Index has risen by 1434%; with the number of trades being […]
more…12 Jun, 2012
Thai Royal Projects to Get More Global Prominence at Mekong Tourism Forum
CHIANG RAI, North Thailand – In yet another indicator of their growing popularity on the global travel scene, Thailand’s royal projects are to be the subject of the opening keynote speech at the Mekong Tourism Forum that got under way here today. Mr Disnadda Diskul, Chairman, Doi Tung Development Project, will address the June 13 […]
more…12 Jun, 2012
Cleared of Trumped Up Graft Charges, Tourism Malaysia Chief Returns to Work
KUALA LUMPUR, June 11 (Bernama and Malaysian media reports) — Datuk Mirza Mohammd Taiyab Beg has returned to duty, as Tourism Malaysia director-general, effective June 11, the tourism promotion agency said in a statement. The decision for Mirza’s return was made by the disciplinary board of Tourism Malaysia following his acquittal by the Sessions Court, […]
more…12 Jun, 2012
Ahead of Rio+20, Global Trades Union Demand “New Development Paradigm”
Rio de Janeiro, 11 June 2012: The 3 day Trade Union Assembly organised jointly by the ITUC and Sustainlabour started today ahead of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development that is due to start next week. Trade unions have been lobbying world leaders, who will meet next week to revitalise commitments around sustainability, employment, […]
more…11 Jun, 2012
Are Security Agencies Spying on Muslim Travellers Worldwide?
A lawsuit filed on June 6 against the New York Police Department exposing how it allegedly spies on Muslim communities, businesses, mosques and individuals has raised serious questions about whether security and intelligence agencies of the U.S. and its geopolitical allies also similarly spy on Muslims, especially Muslim travellers, worldwide. With patience running thin amongst […]
more…11 Jun, 2012
OECD’s First Pensions Report: Those Who Live Longer, Will Have To Work Longer
Paris, 11 June 2012 – In a move that could impact on travel trends from the industrialised countries, especially by the growing numbers of senior citizens, the OECD report has issued a report calling for a revamp of pension schemes in order to keep ageing citizens at work for several years beyond present retirement age. […]
more…11 Jun, 2012
New Service Strives to Help More Americans Get Passports – Fast
(PRWEB) June 10, 2012 – Based on a study published by Data.gov, states such as New Jersey and Alaska have the highest passport ownership rates above 60% of the population. However, inland states such as Mississippi have passport ownership rates as low as 20% of the population. Such a figure is good news for expedited […]
more…10 Jun, 2012
U.S. Muslims sue NYPD for “unconstitutional surveillance”
Originally Published: 10 June 2012 In a move that could well have global ramifications involving the legal border-line between national security and rule of law, a group of Muslim communities, businesses, mosques and individuals in the U.S. last week filed a lawsuit against the New York City Police Department over allegations of unconstitutional surveillance. The […]
more…8 Jun, 2012
Myanmar, Bhutan Tourism Market Briefs — Free Download
BANGKOK, 7 June 2012 – Country presentations by Myanmar and Bhutan were among the highlights of briefing sessions organised at the Thailand Travel Mart Plus Amazing Gateway to The Greater Mekong Subregion (TTM+2012) during 06-08 June 2012. Other countries that made presentations are Vietnam, Cambodia as well as Thailand itself. A sixth presentation was on […]
more…8 Jun, 2012
In Parting Shot, Ousted Thai Airways Chief Blows Whistle on Festering “Poor Governance”
BANGKOK – Making an unscheduled departure well before the official end of his four-year contract, the President of Thai Airways International has blown the whistle on a several instances of alleged poor governance, corruption and nepotism. Addressing the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand (FCCT) on June 1, Mr. Piyasvasti Amranand admitted having failed to adequately […]
more…7 Jun, 2012
Planned Israeli Settlements In West Bank Violate International Law, Says UN Envoy
United Nations, 7 June 2012 (UN News Centre) – A top United Nations envoy today reiterated that all settlement construction in the occupied Palestinian territory represents a breach of international law, after the Israeli Government announced it will build 300 new units in the Beit El settlement. “All settlement construction – whether on private Palestinian […]
more…7 Jun, 2012
Muslim Advocates Files First Lawsuit By Victims of NYPD Spying Program
(Newark, NJ) – June 6, 2012 – Today, Muslim Advocates filed an unprecedented lawsuit against the New York Police Department challenging its policy of targeting innocent American Muslims for surveillance based on their faith. It is the first lawsuit by victims of the NYPD’s discriminatory spying program. The lawsuit, Hassan, et al. v. City of New York, […]
more…6 Jun, 2012
Travel Agents Head List of Occupations Most Likely to Gain Weight – CareerBuilder Survey
CHICAGO, June 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Workplace treats have your pants feeling a little tighter than usual? A new CareerBuilder survey found two-in-five workers (44 percent) said they have gained weight at their current job, on par with previous studies. Twenty-six percent of workers gained over 10 pounds, and 14 percent gained over 20 pounds. […]
more…6 Jun, 2012
Telecoms Union Calls for Reduced e-Waste By Stretching Life of Device
Geneva, 5 June 2012 (International Telecommunications Union) – Participants at the 7th ITU Symposium on ICTs, the Environment and Climate Change have issued a Declaration that encourages ICT manufacturers to make their products more easily upgradable without need for replacing the entire device. The call to promote a life cycle approach in the design of […]
more…6 Jun, 2012
Economic Slump, Geopolitical Change Affecting Workers Worldwide, Survey Shows
6 June 2012 (International Trades Union Congress): 2011 was a difficult and often dangerous year for workers throughout world, with those who dared stand up for their trade union rights facing dismissal, arrest, imprisonment and even death. That in essence is the picture that emerges from the annual survey of trade union rights violations published […]
more…6 Jun, 2012
Asia’s “Green Challenge”: Changing Consumption Patterns, Emission Cuts & Management of Water & Chemicals
6 June 2012 – On the eve of the landmark Rio+20 conference in Brazil, the UN Environment Programme has issued the following Global Environment Outlook 5 (GEO 5) summary for Asia and the Pacific Region:
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