HOLLAND AMERICA INAUGURATES MS EURODAM
by Anggie T. Regala

 
 
Holland America’s fleet welcomes its largest vessel, ms Eurodam. It is the first of the line’s new “Signature-class” ship. Powered by six diesel generators and propelled by the latest Azipod propulsion technology. When launched last summer, a ceremony rich with pomp, circumstance and Dutch heritage, Holland America line names ms Eurodam in its founding city of Rotterdam, Netherlands. Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, 70 years old, is the godmother of the beautiful ship. She executed the blessing and officially named the ship in front of the historic European headquarters of Holland America Line at Wilhelminakade, Rotterdam’s cruise terminal. Our very own, Mr. Felix P. Mabanta Jr. –TWASP Chariman and CEO went on board to attend the inauguration. More than 2,000 Holland America Line employees, retirees, dignitaries, past guests, top travel sellers and guests from all over the world enjoyed three days of celebratory events leading up to the lavish pier-side ceremony. The ms Eurodam will spend its inaugural season on alternating 10-day Northern Europe itineraries, sailing roundtrip from Copenhagen, Denmark.
 
 
SV SETS OFF NEW TICKETING/RESERVATIONS OFFICE
by Ana Teresa D. David
 

Comfy couch, cozy lighting, accommodating staff. An exclusive first class service offered by the newly opened SV Office. Located at 128 HV Dela Costa corner Sanchez St, Salcedo Village, Makati, Saudi Arabian Airlines set off a Ticketing and Reservations Office last April 21, 2008 inside the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Situated at the ground floor near the prayer room, Saudia renders an exceptional assistance to officials and staff of Saudi Embassy as well as their guests.

The concept of establishing a ticket office at the Embassy is to alleviate inconvenience on the part of the VIP’s and to maximize ticket issuance. The office opens at 11:00am and closes at 3:00pm with one (1) ticketing agent on duty. As expected, security inside the Embassy is tight. Cellular phones, cameras, USB and other electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited.

Equipped with the first PC based STARS system installed in the Philippines, SV now provides faster and more accurate service among its passengers. The office set-up, in addition, creates a lighter mood for a more pleasant and casual interaction between the agent and the client. Marking its fourth month of operation, SV is leaning towards the improvement of the facility and service. Committed to passengers’ satisfaction, Saudi Arabian Airlines is undoubtedly “aiming to do better”.