Marilyn Carlson Nelson, chief executive of Carlson Companies whose brands range from TGI Friday's to Radisson hotels, says last year was "marvellous". There were record profits with more than 15% bottom-line growth, with Seven Seas Cruise liners full while hotels had a very high occupancy. She believes more and more travellers will be coming into the market, especially in China and India "where people are longing to see the world". Former Irish president Mary Robinson, chairwoman of the Council of Women's World Leaders, is on record as saying "we need more leaders like her". US Secretary of Labour Elaine Chao has described Carlson Nelson as a trailblazer, admired for her "determination to ensure the doors of opportunity remain wide open for women". The Independent on Sunday 19/02/06 (Business) page 5

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