Tourism, Food, and Wine news headlines

*   The Legatum Prosperity Index shows that most African countries, including South Africa (now in 77th position) have declined in prosperity in the past year.  The most prosperous countries are, in order, Norway, Switzerland, Canada, Sweden, New Zealand, and Denmark.  Both the USA (11th) and UK (16th) have slipped on the Index relative to last year, particularly the former.

*   World Travel Market, one of the top three travel and tourism exhibitions, and taking place in London from Monday – Thursday, will boost the UK economy by £160 million, and deals to the value of £2 billion are expected to be signed amongst the 50000 attendees.

*   The Gfk Consumer Climate Europe is measuring a small upturn in the economic outlook for the European Union countries, signalling that the worst of the economic crisis in Europe may be over.

*   Ebony Gallery on Loop Street is exhibiting Grace Kotze’s ‘Within’ exhibition from 7 November – 4 December. (received via e-mail from Ebony)

*   A new ranking of climate-friendly airlines by Atmosfair places Tunisair Express on top of the list, followed by TUIfly.

*   The 2014 Concours International des Jeunes Chefs Rotisseurs competition will be held in Durban next September.

*   The Morgan Stanley report that the world is facing a wine shortage due to a wine production decline and increased demand has been criticised by blogger Dr Vino.

*   A larger number of electronic devices and usages thereof will be allowed during flights by the Federal Aviation Administration in the USA by the end of the year.

*   The Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé Programme is bearing fruit, with some of the aspirant winemakers having been appointed in permanent positions in the past seven years. Elmarie Botes has been appointed as assistant winemaker for Fleur du Cap at Die Bergkelder.  Heinrich Kulsen will be moving from Villiera to Hermanuspietersfontein.  Tamsyn Jeftha and Sacha Claasen are assistant winemakers at Hartenberg Estate and Asara Wines. Praisy Dlamini has moved from Die Bergkelder to join Zonnebloem’s winemaking team. (received via media release from GC Communications)

Chris von Ulmenstein, Whale Cottage Portfolio: www.whalecottage.com  Twitter: @WhaleCottage