Tourism, Food, and Wine news headlines

*   Every day the world’s airlines fly 8 million passengers around the world, a total of 3,1 billion in 2013, breaking through the 3 million passenger mark for the first time.  More than 50 million tonnes of cargo is transported annually, and the airline industry’s direct global economic contribution is $540 billion.

*   South African wines will be represented at the Wine Buyers Forum Windsor 2014, at which buyers with a buying power of $2,2 million each will attend on 10 and 11 March.

*   The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reports that passenger numbers stabilised in November 2013, relative to the same month a year prior, with a growth of only 4%.   The Middle East had the highest growth rate at 10%, while Africa saw a decline of 2%.

*   97 million Chinese tourists are reported to have travelled outside of their country in 2013. (received via Travel Press Release)

*   The weak Rand and rising maize price could lead to an interest rate increase as the inflation rate increases, projects Business Day.

*   Adi Badenhorst’s The Curator blend of Chenin Blanc,  Chardonnay, and Viognier is recommended in the American Richmond Times.

*   In the past five years 350000 ex South Africans, who worked overseas, have returned to their home country, and now represent 18% of managerial and professional staff.

*   Cape Town metro police have confiscated 6000 litres of alcohol from beaches and public spaces since the beginning of December, 3oo litres more than the previous Festive Season.   This has made bathing on the beaches safer, as incidents have been linked to alcohol abuse.

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