I have also initiated a series of meetings with the heads of a number of major international agencies, UNWTO, ISO, IOE, IOM, OECD and UNESCO to review common subjects and determine our future activity with each one. A detailed report of these discussions is given in the newsletter, but what I, personally, gained from this round of meetings was how well recognized IH&RA is at the international level. These agencies look to IH&RA for information and guidance on the hospitality industry – and are eager to work with us in a number of important areas, I did establish an excellent contact with them.

Finally, I have taken upon myself to represent IH&RA at every possible occasion. For instance, at the World Travel Market in London in November I attended the UNWTO Task Force for the Protection of Children from Commercial Sexual Exploitation in Tourism – and will do so again in Berlin in March while at ITB and the International Hotel Investment Forum. By blending IH&RA work into my own very full travel schedule I am also going to attend the 21 st Board meeting of the UNWTO affiliate members in Berlin and intend to maximise exposure for the Association and contact with Members, old and new.