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www.travelweekly-asia.com | 21 A D V E R TO R I A L Costa Victoria Asia's fi rst fashion cruise, Costa Victoria's contemporary elegance is quintessentially Italian in style. The indoor spa pool evokes the splendor of Pompeii, while Bar Capriccio is glamorously decorated with mosaics of famous Italian artist Emilio Tadinis. Costa Victoria is also the fi rst cruise ship in Asia to boast designer fashion boutiques with top European brands at duty-free prices. After nine years of successful operation in Asia Pacifi c and China, Costa Cruises announces another two milestones in 2015, responding to the huge growth of cruising in the region. The Italian cruise brand is the fi rst international cruise line to deploy 3 ships in Asia year round, with the arrival of Costa Serena increasing the brand's capacity in the region by a huge 74 percent. In addition, Costa Atlantica debuts the fi rst ever Asia based Around-the- World Cruise especially dedicated to Greater Chinese tourists. It marks a new era for Costa Cruises and the cruise industry in Asia. EXPANSION IN THE FAST- GROWING ASIA MARKET In 2015, Costa Cruises will open a new chapter for Asia's cruise industry when Costa Serena joins Costa Victoria and Costa Altantica A NEW ERA FOR COSTA ASIA in Asia, to be the fi rst international cruise line to deploy 3 ships in the region. "The Asia market is of strategic importance to Costa Cruises, and we are focused on expanding in this market. Costa Serena, a ship dedicated to Greek gods, will bring to our Asian guests a most unforgettable Italian experience. Her deployment in Asia continues a well-established trend to bring better and higher quality offerings to this region." says Buhdy Bok, who was recently promoted to President of Costa Asia of Costa Cruises Asia Pacifi c & China from February 1st, 2015. The high growth of interest in cruise holidays for Asian guests shows signifi cant future growth in the Asian cruise market. Costa Atlantica sets another milestone as Asia's fi rst Around-the-World Cruise to sail from Shanghai. "The growing interest in Costa's European style of cruise holiday from our Asian guests is very encouraging. More recent, more. Costa Cruises will also sail on a fi rst Around-the-World Cruise from Asia, customized for Chinese speaking guests. We continue to be optimistic about the prospects for growth in this region with the burgeoning middle to upper-class seeking a good quality, and high value holiday." he adds. ITALY AT SEA Costa is the only Italian cruise line operating in Asia offering an experience that is rich in Italian fl avor and culture. Asia has already fallen in love with Costa Cruises' "Italy at Sea"-themed ships, which bring a European mix of elegance and sophistication to the region. Italy conjures up pictures of romance, fashion and art, their world famous cuisine and family time, and the "Italy at Sea" concept gives guests a rich immersive experience in Italian hospitality, culture, food and the arts. Each ship showcases a distinct element of Italian culture, and services are customized for Asian guests to ensure they feel right at home on-board. COSTA ASIA'S FLEET Following the unique Italian theme of Costa Asia's fl eet, the ships have perfected the art of Italian hospitality, serving up a winning combination of charm and culture, fun and relaxation via fl awless service, unique facilities, innovative entertainment and their exquisite cuisine. Costa Serena The epitome of classic style, the ship is designed to evoke the feel of 'ancient Rome at sea' with its Greek and Roman mythology inspired interiors. Costa Serena also bring some innovations to guests on board such as the 6,000m 2 Samsara Spa, 4D Cinema and Grand Prix F1 simulator. Costa Atlantica Dedicated to Italian cinema and arts, Costa Atlantica shines with classic Italian glamour. The interior is inspired by the artistry of Federico Fellini, with each deck named after a fi lm by the Italian maestro. Featuring more than 400 pieces of artwork, Costa Atlantica is renowned as a fl oating art museum. Left: Costa Serena. From top: Atrium, Costa Serena; and 4D Cinema, Costa Serena. Costa Crociere S.p.A. is Europe's leading cruise company and Costa Cruises (www.costacruisesasia.com) was the fi rst international cruise company to operate homeport cruises within the China market, entering the region in 2006. According to CCYIA, Costa Cruises continues its leading position in China with a 35.98% market share of homeport cruise journeys in 2014. Buhdy Bok, President Costa Asia, Costa Cruises Asia Pacifi c & China. "The Asia market is of strategic importance to Costa Cruises, and we are focused on expanding in this market." we see a gradual development of demand from mostly short haul cruises lasting 4 to 5 days to longer- haul experiences lasting a week or