There will be something for everyone and every family. From a new Blue Man Group show and newly re-created experience inside one of Universal Orlando’s most popular attractions to a stunning parade, spectacular nighttime show and brand-new blockbuster attraction based on an incredibly popular film – Universal Orlando Resort is bringing guests more new entertainment across our entire destination in 2012 than during any other year in our history.

Universal Orlando Centennial Anniversary

The new experiences will begin debuting in February. Guests will discover the exhilarating entertainment of a new Blue Man Group show; marvel at breathtaking new animation and effects in The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man; dance and celebrate with their favorite animated characters during Universal’s Superstar Parade and relive memorable moments from Universal Pictures’ most powerful and beloved films during the nighttime show Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular – 100 Years of Movie Memories. And coming this summer – families will laugh together as they are transformed into minions for an incredible adventure inside the new Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction.

Universal Orlando will also be marking the Universal Pictures Centennial Anniversary Celebration during 2012 with a series of events to be announced throughout the year.

“We are about to offer our guests a historic range of incredible new entertainment experiences,” said Alice Norsworthy, executive vice president of Marketing and Sales for Universal Orlando Resort. “This year will be filled with excitement and entertainment for the entire family.”

About Universal Orlando Resort

There are many ways for your clients to enjoy their Orlando vacation – but there is only one Universal Orlando Resort. It is a completely separate destination featuring two theme parks, three magnificently themed on-site hotels and a nighttime entertainment complex. It’s the only Orlando destination where your clients are not just entertained – they are part of the most exhilarating entertainment ever created. They can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, battle aliens alongside Agent J, and help Shrek save Princess Fiona in Shrek 4-D. They can be courageous, be outrageous – and be extraordinary. Visit www.universaltravelagents.com for more information or to book a trip for your clients.

Rezidor, one of the fastest growing hotel companies in the world, include the Radisson Blu brand as well as Park Inn and Park Plaza. As Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group they will be responsible for more than 1,300 hotels across 80 countries.

The legal status and ownership structure of Carlson and Rezidor will remain unchanged.

“Carlson and Rezidor have a long common history and have grown together over the past 17 years,” said Carlson president Hubert Joly.

The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group plans to generate more than USD 400 million in additional revenue and a RevPAR Index increase of more than nine points by 2015. This will happen via a collection of concrete revenue generation initiatives that include a reinforced global sales team, unique revenue optimization tools and the rapid growth of Club Carlson, the group’s successful loyalty program.

The group is also planning a number of partnership projects with travel intermediaries, including Carlson Wagonlit Travel.

The strategy was announced during Obama’s speech at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.  It includes the creation of an interagency task force to help promote iconic American destinations such as national parks, in collaboration with the Corporation for Travel Promotion. The corporation has just launched its own campaign to promote US tourism, the Brand USA campaign.

Travel industry groups have been quick to praise the new initiatives, among them the U.S. Travel Association, the National Retail Federation and American Airlines.

Key to the strategy is a long-awaited visa reform. The U.S. Travel Association has been arguing that such measures would boost the economy and create jobs.

The Departments of State and Homeland Security have been given the task of increasing non-immigrant visa processing capacity from emerging markets China and Brazil by 40 percent this year. This should ensure that 80 percent of non-immigrant visa applicants within three weeks of receipt. Efforts are also being made to expand the Visa Waiver Program.

A pilot program that should speed up the whole application process has also been announced by the two departments; this includes the option to waive interviews for low-risk applicants. Other measures include an expansion of the Global Entry program and recommending Taiwan for the Visa Waiver Program.

In the three days immediately following the accident, CruiseOne – along with sister company Cruises Inc. – has reported an almost 6 percent increase in its Wave Season cruise sales compared to sales during the same three-day period last year.

“While any crisis situation creates an immediate reaction from consumers, we anticipate that this will not negatively impact our Wave Season bookings,” said Dwain Wall, senior vice president and general manager at CruiseOne and Cruises Inc.

“This is certainly a very sad tragedy, but we believe the impact will be short-term and that consumers will continue to book cruise vacations,” Wall stated to the press. “The cruise industry is incredibly resilient, as we’ve seen in the past, and I firmly believe people will see this incident for what it was, which is a rare accident.”

Both CruiseOne and Cruises Inc, part of the World Travel Holdings group, will continue to market cruising as a safe way to travel.

Wall said he hoped the accident could provide ‘valuable feedback’ for improving safety onboard cruise vessels and pledged that agents from both companies would keep abreast of any changes in regulation resulting from the accident, thus maintaining their position as “local experts in the field”.

As on January 1 2012, Sofitel Centara Grand Bangkok became Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok, Sofitel Centara Grand Resort & Villas Hua Hin became Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, and Novotel Hat Yai Centara became Centara Hotel Hat Yai.

The name changes are the result of an end to the 25-year partnership between Accor, owner of the Sofitel and Novotel brands, and Centara Hotels & Resorts. What began with the former Sofitel Hua Hin in 1986 was formally dissolved as the clocks struck midnight on December 31 2011.

The partnership’s dissolution is reported to be an amicable one and the staff at all three hotels will remain unchanged.

To coincide with the rebranding of the Centara Hotels group, a complete renovation is underway at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok. Similar renovation programmes have already been completed at Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin and at Centara Hotel Hat Yai.

Worsening weather and heavy seas earlier made the wreck slip on the rocky underwater slope where it is stuck off the island of Giglio and rescue teams were removed. But they returned to work after several hours, seeking up to 16 missing people out of the 4,200 who were aboard. Six bodies have been found so far.

Earlier search teams retrieved a sixth body from the 114,500-tonne Costa Concordia, which was holed by a rock late on Friday and rolled onto its side just off the coast of the picturesque port. The giant, multi-storey liner had about 4,200 passengers and crew on board, though some uncertainty about the numbers means it is unclear just how many are unaccounted for.

The vessel’s captain, Francesco Schettino, was arrested on Saturday. He is accused of manslaughter and abandoning his ship before all those on board were evacuated.

The chief executive of the ship’s owners, Costa Cruises, on Monday blamed human error by Schettino for the disaster. Pier Luigi Foschi told a news conference the company would provide its captain with any assistance he required. “But we need to acknowledge the facts and we cannot deny human error,” he added.

“He carried out a manoeuvre which had not been approved by us and we disassociate ourselves from such behaviour,” Costa Crociere boss Pier Luigi Foschi said at a press conference in Genoa.

In a frontpage editorial for the respected daily Corriere della Sera, Pierluigi Battista wrote: “Italy owes the world, international public opinion, the families of those who lost their lives, those who were injured and those who fortunately remained unhurt, a convincing explanation and the toughest possible sanctions against those responsible for this tragedy.”

In a glitzy show of luxury befitting its location – Doha was voted as the “World’s Leading Business Travel Destination” at the ceremony – American Express, Starwood Hotels, Lufthansa, Abercrombie & Kent, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Europcar and Incredible India were all recognized for their roles in spearheading the global tourism recovery.

The Wall Street Journal has dubbed the World Travel Awards as “The Oscars of the travel industry”. The ceremony was started 19 years ago and is committed to raising customer service standards and business performance throughout the tourism industry worldwide.

During its 2011 Grand Tour, regional heats took place in Dubai, Turkey’s Antalya, Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt, Bangkok and Montego Bay, Jamaica. The winners were chosen by more than 210,000 industry professionals and consumers across the world, with nominations from over 5,000 companies in 1,000 categories.

Tonight’s show, staged in partnership with Qatar Tourism Authority, was held at Doha’s new cutting-edge arts and exhibitions complex, Katara Cultural Village.

India upstaged New York, London, Rio de Janeiro, Cape Town and Sydney to win the title of “World’s Leading Destination”, with the country’s national tourist board, Incredible India, voted “World’s Leading Tourist Board”.

Another upstart was Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates was voted “World’s Leading Airline”. After a mere eight years in existence, the airline’s rise in fortune has been described as ‘nothing short of meteoric’.

Non-GAAP net income for the full year 2011 was $1.9 billion, or $2.42 diluted EPS, compared to net income of $2.0 billion, or $2.47 diluted EPS, for the prior year. Full year 2011 reported net income was $1.9 billion, or $2.42 diluted EPS. Revenues for the full year 2011 were $15.8 billion compared to $14.5 billion for the prior year.

The company recently implemented a fuel derivatives program to mitigate a portion of its economic risk attributable to potentially significant fuel price increases. The company believes it is more meaningful to evaluate its earnings performance by excluding the impact of unrealized gains and losses on its fuel derivatives from non-GAAP net income and diluted earnings per share until the gains or losses are realized. For further information on the company’s fuel derivatives program see “Fuel Derivatives” below.

Carnival Corporation & plc Chairman and CEO Micky Arison noted that earnings on a non-GAAP basis were in line with the company’s September guidance for the fourth quarter of 2011.

Commenting on 2011 full year results, Arison said, “On the whole, 2011 was an encouraging year for our global portfolio of cruise brands. Our North American brands performed well, achieving an almost four percent revenue yield increase, while our European, Australian and Asian brand yields were in line with the prior year (constant dollars) despite having been significantly impacted by the geo-political unrest in the Middle East and North Africa. Higher revenue yields partially offset a 32 percent increase in fuel prices, which reduced earnings by $535 million or $0.68 per share for the year.”

Arison added, “Cash from operations of $3.8 billion provided more than ample funding for our $2.7 billion capital investment program and enabled the company to return excess cash to shareholders. Earlier this year, our quarterly dividend was increased from $0.10 to $0.25 per share resulting in $670 million of dividend distributions. In addition, we purchased 14.8 million of the company’s shares in the open market at a cost of $455 million.”

Key metrics for the fourth quarter 2011 compared to the prior year were as follows:

On a constant dollar basis net revenue yields (net revenue per available lower berth day,“ALBD”) increased 1.5 percent for 4Q 2011, which was in line with the company’s September guidance, up 1.0 to 2.0 percent. Gross revenue yields increased 0.3 percent in current dollars.

Net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD decreased 1.8 percent in constant dollars, less than the September guidance, down 3.0 to 4.0 percent. Gross cruise costs including fuel per ALBD in current dollars increased 2.6 percent.

Fuel prices increased 39 percent to $680 per metric ton for 4Q 2011 from $488 per metric ton in 4Q 2010 and was in line with the September guidance of $686 per metric ton.
The company implemented a fuel derivatives program in 4Q 2011, which resulted in $1 million of net unrealized gains on its portfolio of fuel derivatives. There were no realized gains or losses on fuel derivatives during 4Q 2011.

Full Year 2012 Outlook

At this time, cumulative advance bookings for 2012 are at slightly higher prices with slightly lower occupancies compared to the prior year. For the last six weeks, booking volumes for the first three quarters of 2012 are running well ahead of the prior year at lower prices.

Looking forward, Arison stated, “Our base of business for 2012 is solid and we are experiencing strong booking volumes leading into wave season, our heaviest booking period which begins in early January. Despite the uncertain economic environment, we anticipate a continued slow recovery in yields in 2012 driven by ongoing consumer recognition that our cruises provide an exceptional value.”

He added, “A wide array of exciting innovations and the continued modernization of our existing global fleet should drive even greater consumer interest and enthusiasm for our brands. An example is Carnival Cruise Lines’ recently announced Fun Ship 2.0, which is a multi-year $500 million investment to transform the shipboard experience through exciting partnerships and new branded spaces. Carnival Liberty, which was recently re-introduced with several of the new features, has generated exceptional buzz and has been well received by consumers and travel agents.”

Based on current booking trends, the company forecasts full year 2012 net revenue yields, on a constant dollar basis, to be up 1.0 to 2.0 percent. The company expects net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD for the full year 2012 to be in line with the prior year on a constant dollar basis. At current exchange rates, full year 2012 net income is expected to be reduced by $135 million or $0.17 per share compared to 2011 due to changes in currency exchange rates.

Taking all the above factors into consideration, the company forecasts full year 2012 non-GAAP diluted earnings per share to be in the range of $2.55 to $2.85, compared to 2011 non-GAAP diluted earnings of $2.42 per share.

Arison added, “We remain focused on strategic growth through the addition of two to three new ships per year and expect to continue to return excess cash to shareholders. Based on the above guidance, we estimate our cash from operations will approach $4 billion in 2012, while our capital investment commitment will be $2.6 billion. We expect to generate significant free cash flow in 2012 and beyond, which should provide further opportunities to return cash to shareholders.”

During 2012, the company will introduce three new ships. Costa Fascinosa is scheduled for delivery in April, while AIDAmar and Carnival Breeze are scheduled for delivery in May. Recently, P&O Cruises (Australia) sold Pacific Sun which will leave the fleet in July 2012.

First Quarter 2012 Outlook

First quarter constant dollar net revenue yields are expected to increase 1.5 to 2.5 percent compared to the prior year. Net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD for the first quarter are expected to be up 3.5 to 4.5 percent on a constant dollar basis compared to the prior year due primarily to the higher number of dry-dock days and related costs versus the prior year. Fuel costs for the first quarter are expected to increase $93 million compared to the prior year, costing an additional $0.12 per share.

Based on the above factors, including the higher fuel prices, the company expects non-GAAP diluted earnings for the first quarter 2012 to be in the range of $0.06 to $0.10 per share versus 2011 non-GAAP earnings of $0.19 per share.

Hampton Hotels (www.hampton.com), part of the Hilton Worldwide portfolio of brands, announced that it is number one in Entrepreneur Magazine’s annual Franchise 500® for the second year in a row. Hampton is the first hotel brand ever to achieve this prestigious top ranking in Entrepreneur, known as the world’s “first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking.”

“This is an unprecedented achievement for any hotel brand and I couldn’t be more proud of our franchise partners,” said Phil Cordell, global head, Focused Service Brands and Hampton Hotels, Hilton Worldwide. “The fact that we’ve held the number one ranking for two years in a row is an endorsement of the commitment and trust our franchisees have in the Hampton brand. When you factor in our unique business model, passionate corporate leadership and engaged hotel team members who deliver great guest service every day, it’s easy to see why we are an award-winning brand.”

Paul Brown, president, Brands and Commercial Services, Hilton Worldwide, said “receiving recognition from a credited and impartial source such as Entrepreneur is a coveted endorsement for any brand. Hampton hotels and its visionary franchise partners will continue to play a key role in Hilton Worldwide’s mission to be the preeminent global hospitality company — the first choice of guests, team members, and owners alike.”

“Franchises are a great avenue to business ownership for those with the entrepreneurial spirit—and they’re playing a definitive role in driving the economy upward,” says Amy Cosper, VP and editor in chief of Entrepreneur. “Unit numbers from the Franchise 500® grew overall in 2010 and 2011, giving individuals a great place to begin investigating some of the brightest opportunities like Hampton.”

How does a brand like Hampton hotel stay number one? “We are unwavering in our commitment to support our franchisees, and we provide ample opportunities for interaction along with helpful tools and resources,” said Gina Valenti, vice president, Owner Services and Hampton Brand Culture & Internal Communications. “Our ultimate goal is to develop relationships with our franchisees and management partners that foster loyalty and a passion for the brand. I am proud that our owners are so highly engaged and committed to the global success of the brand, and I think this Entrepreneur ranking is a testament to that fact.”

Bo Aughtry, of Windsor, Aughtry Company and owner of several Hampton hotels and a member of the brand’s Franchise Advisory Council, is an example of the visionary guidance Hampton enjoys. “I value my relationships with Hampton and Hilton Worldwide leaders,” he said. “They demonstrate a consistent focus on keeping the brand change-ready and future-focused, providing support and working to foster the strength and growth of the brand. It’s a great franchise to be a part of and well-deserving of its many awards.”

The Hampton brand continues to grow with the brand opening its first hotel in India this December 2011. Hotel openings in the USA, Europe, Asia, and Latin America in 2012 and beyond can also be attributed to the strong Hilton Worldwide global development teams who partner with the brand, investors and management companies to set them up for business success with Hampton hotels.

Each year, the highly respected luxury travel publication profiles the top hotels, resorts and travel experiences selected personally by Editor in Chief Andrew Harper.

The prestigious Grand Awards recognize the very finest of properties that Mr. Harper visited in the past year.

Each of Mr. Harper’s Grand Award winners possesses exceptional character, a commitment to classic hospitality and a profound sense of place. Mr. Harper does not evaluate hotels by means of a checklist, but uses his three decades of experience to distinguish the truly enchanting from the merely excellent.

Situated on the high banks of Kenya’s Ewaso Nyiro River, Sasaab Lodge offers unparalleled views of the dry Northern Frontier District and the rigid peak of Mt. Kenya. Sasaab’s unique, luxurious design incorporates Moroccan principles for keeping cool in the African heat, as the large, airy rooms and private plunge pools make for a comfortable stay. The safari experience on Samburu land is vastly different to that found in any other part of Kenya, while the Samburu people’s unique customs and warm personalities make interaction with locals a major highlight of any visit.

Sasaab is a part of The Safari Collection’s portfolio of exceptional Kenyan properties offering a wide variety of experiences. Giraffe Manor is Nairobi’s most iconic boutique hotel, while Sala’s Camp provides ideal access to the famed Masai Mara. Solio Lodge is the newest property and boasts stunning views of Mount Kenya along with the largest concentration of rhinoceros and a private reserve.

The full list of winners and their reviews, including Special Recognitions and Indelible Memories of 2011 is available online at www.AndrewHarper.com/grand-awards-2012.

About The Safari Collection

The Safari Collection is a group of exceptional vacation properties and safari experiences in Kenya, one of East Africa’s fastest growing destinations. In addition to spectacular locations, impeccable customer service, luxurious comfort and an unmatched safari experience, all properties are deeply committed to sustainability and community involvement. Solio Lodge is one of Kenya’s most luxurious new properties, and is a part of the country’s most successful rhinoceros breeding reserve; while Giraffe Manor was just awarded top 5 in Travel + Leisure magazine’s prestigious World Service Awards.

The Safari Collection www.thesafaricollection.com