TB 1407 2017 Cover 12/07/2017 14:51 Page 1
July 14 2017 | ISSUE NO 2,023 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Cyprus Destination welcomes boost in year-round visitors
this week 19 staff review 10 training 13 far east 21 we check in at Mark online & offline mexico new loyalty programme Warner’s San Lucianu courses to boost your from Hong Kong Resort in Corsica product knowledge operators unveil new Tourism Board programme additions & deals S01 TB 1407 2017 Start_Layout 1 12/07/2017 10:17 Page 2
WIN A LUXURY Y TRIP TO BORDE EAUX WITH TGV ATLANTIQU UE... BRAND NEW TRAINS AND QUICKER JOURNEY TIMES TO SOUTH WEST FRANCE AND BRITTANTANY...Y... ON SALE NOW!
PARISPARIS > BORDEAUX IN JUST 2H04 FROM £23 EACH WAWAY!*AY!* PARISPARIS > POITIERS IN JUST 1H18 FROM £18.50 EA ACH WAWAY!*AY!* Why not combine w ith a Eurostar journey forfor highhi gh speed travel to the Continent. London > Paris tickets from £58 retuurn in Standard Class.
WIN A TWOO NIGHT STTAAYAY IN A JUNJUNIOR NIOR SUITE AATT THE INTERCOONTINENTTALAL BORDEAUUX, INCLUDING Website: RETURRN FIRST CLASS RAIL TTRAVEL**!AVEL**! www.voyages-sncf.euf.eu Simply complete ou ur new and improved online e training course by Call: 4 September 2017 fforor your chance to win. 0844 848 4066 Visit www.bbbeaeuropeanrailexperrt.ccom today!
*Journey times indicated reppresent the best travel times for the s peci ed journeys. Prices are based up pon cheapest one way fare in standard class. All prices are subject to availability. **R Return rst class rail travel for two pas ssengers will be provided between London aand Bordeaux, via Paris.
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Cover Pictures: Main - l i g h t p o e t Inset - AMResorts 08 andthe head board ofbed,a flying from Delhi. wrap;batha tub, trying to get to London from Johannesburg; tryingto fly from Las Vegas; deada cow wrapped inbubble travellingfrom Shanghai to London; largea fridge freezer bumper,trying to fly from Heathrow; loose car tyres, fourlive goldfish, trying to travel from Barbados; cara Lagos. in place common and tyres India loose in regularly check-in at arriving brooms patterns, with regional also were There engine. an parts car including several with along cow, dead entire an shoulder and customer’s a on budgie a fish, from ranging world. the around from requests of check-in strangest the revealed has from Lucia, St teams, to airport Shanghai global Atlantic's Virgin Atlantic of Virgin by STUDY A revealed items check-in questionable most The travelbulletin.co.uk 03 CANADA COUP...Gold Medal invited a group of agents to experience a five-night fam trip to Canada. Whilst in Ontario agents explored agents Ontario in Whilst Canada. to trip fam five-night a experience to agents of group a invited Medal COUP...Gold CANADA Toronto, hit new heights with the Niagara Falls zip-line and took time out for some well-deserved wine tasting and a city tour. city a and tasting wine well-deserved some for out time took and zip-line Falls Niagara the with heights new hit Toronto, Pictured at Niagara Falls are, from the left: Amy Greenwood, Pure Travel; Amy Richardson, Central England Co-op; Jolie Royds, Jolie Co-op; England Central Richardson, Amy Travel; Pure Greenwood, Amy left: the from are, Falls Niagara at Pictured Cruise 118; Claire Hills, Gold Medal; Louise Simmons, Bellingham Travel; Tony McSorley, Air Transat; Steven Donovan, Go Cruise; Go Donovan, Steven Transat; Air McSorley, Tony Travel; Bellingham Simmons, Louise Medal; Gold Hills, Claire 118; Cruise Louis McDonagh, Travel Maker; Kisrty McBride, Holiday Consultants; and Charlotte Harris, Miles Morgan. Miles Harris, Charlotte and Consultants; Holiday McBride, Kisrty Maker; Travel McDonagh, Louis CANADA COUP... CANADA Thewildest items included baga filled with water, with animals, of variety strong a featured findings The been up to lately find out what homeworker Eileen has at home with eileen announcements and offers a round-up of this week’s industry news
This week 10 09 12 11 out its facilities Lucianu Resort in Corsica to check we check in at Mark Warner’s San staff review trips just for you new booking incentives, offers & fam agent bulletin £50 M&S voucher play Su Doku for your chance to win a puzzle bulletin news & views from AITO bulletin briefing 0844-209 2770. 2770. 0844-209 For more information see virginatlantic.com or call call or virginatlantic.com see information more For travelling as cargo is not a problem. a not is cargo as travelling tyres loose meaning cars, entire including of goods plethora a transport does service cargo Atlantic’s bathtubs.” include doesn’t which certainly - onboard allowed is what check our to visit website to best always it’s possible, journey the smoothest have customers our ensure to However, of out ordinary. the something notice they when day their brightens certainly it and basis daily a on so customers to many speak teams global Our baggage! of eclectic an selection expect to right only it’s so mix destinations, eclectic of an to flown always "We’ve said: customer, - Whilst such items cannot be taken in the cabin, Virgin cabin, the in taken be cannot items such Whilst president vice executive carrier's the Anderson, Mark 15 21 19 13
July 142017
bulletin news round visitors destination welcomes boost in year- cyprus Kong Tourism Board new loyalty programme from Hong far east additions & deals operators unveil new programme mexico product knowledge online & offline courses to boost your training 3 S01 TB 1407 2017 Start_Layout 1 12/07/2017 10:17 Page 4
newsbulletin New Stay Play Explore family breaks to Stratford and Warwick A NEW family short break has been launched to opportunity to work with Leicestershire Promotions to celebrate the range of visitor attractions and extend the successful Stay Play Explore programme to experiences in the home of William Shakespeare. Warwickshire. Stay Play Explore Warwickshire really Stay Play Explore Warwickshire offers a choice of three highlights how family friendly we are. What children from 11 top-class visitor attractions in Stratford and would not enjoy a visit to the MAD Museum, Butterfly Warwick, plus one night's accommodation with breakfast in Farm and Mary’ Arden’s Farm, let alone Warwick Castle a local four-star hotel for £185 for a family of four. and the British Motor Museum? Attractions and experiences include Warwick Castle, "We know this will be a fantastic success and we Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Stratford Butterfly Farm, Royal look forward to extending the offer to incorporate Shakespeare Company, Museum of Architecture and attractions in Coventry and other parts of our region.” Design, British Motor Museum, Hall’s Croft, Shakespeare’s Visitors can book accommodation online at either New Place, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Mary Arden’s Farm Wroxall Abbey Hotel, Double Tree by Hilton at the and Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall. Ricoh Arena or Jurys Inn Hinckley Island. Helen Peters, chief executive of Shakepeare’s England For more information see said: “Shakespeare’s England is delighted to have the stayplayexplore.co.uk/Warwickshire
Poll predicts fitness getaways will be key holiday trend this summer RIBBLE CYCLES polled the nation to find lounging by the pool to getting into the sun seeking for activity focused holidays; out what they are looking for in a holiday saddle, with two-thirds (67%) doing so to 66% would consider taking their children this summer and can reveal that almost improve their overall fitness. on a fitness holiday this year. three quarters (74%) of Brits would The top reason Brits are looking to go The research also showed fitness consider swapping their usual holiday on a fitness holiday is to focus on their breaks are a huge trend among stressed ventures for a fitness break. wellbeing (56%), followed by improving millennials, with more than half (55%) of Getting older was commonly cited as their overall fitness (55%), eating participants aged between 18 and 24 a factor for choosing an activity led healthier (42%) and improving their stating that their biggest motivation for vacation. Those aged 55 to 64 are most mental health (42%). Parents across the going on an activity based holiday is to likely to make the switch (82%) from UK are also swapping ice-creams and improve their mental health.
• NEW: Win a five-night stay, £100 Love2Shop vouchers and a summer hamper with Outrigger Resorts
• NEW: Win a four-night stay for two with AMResorts
• NEW: Win a £100 lifestyle voucher with Saga
• Four lucky agents will have the chance to win cases of wine with Feel Slovenia
BEAR WITH US...Seven travel agents were hosted on an action- packed fam trip to British Columbia courtesy of Prestige Holidays. The week-long adventure included a stay at Knight Inlet Lodge, one of the best places to view grizzly bears, and the group spent three days watching the bears and their cubs at play. The itinerary also took in sightseeing in Vancouver and Victoria. Pictured are, from the left: Trevor Prior, Westway Travel; Penny Baxter, Travelstar; Elaine Price, Spear Travels; Lyndsey Riddell, Clubworld Travel; Jan Colson, Symphony World Travel; Paul Lodge, Carolyn Lodge Travel; and Andrew Tait, Travelwise.
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Thomson Cruises extends summer spirit THOMSON CRUISES has announced that it will SWEET SLOVENIA...Inghams recently hosted a group of agents on a fam trip to Slovenia to explore the resorts of Lake Bled, Kransjka Gora and Lake Bohinj. During their stay the group participated in a range extend Thomson Spirit’s of activities including swimming in Lake Bled, hiking, taking a cable car up to Mount Vogel, as well as time with the company, visiting Bled castle and Bled Island. Pictured sampling Kremeschnitte (Lake Bled cake) are, from the left: sailing it until the end of Laura Fry, Midcounties Co-op; Patricia Cooper, Thomas Cook; Karen Farrell, Hays Travel; Yvonne summer 2018 as a result of MacKinnon, Carrick Travel; Sarah Hollingshead, Toucan Travel; and Amelia Hughes, Newell’s Travel. customer demand. The ship, which was due to sail for the final time in New Lapland launch for 2017/18 from Monarch Holidays November this year, will be MONARCH HOLIDAYS has launched its new Lapland brochure featuring a range of Santa Trips based in Palma in April and Arctic Experiences with deposits of £59 per person. 2018, before moving to New to the programme this winter are Santa trips from Birmingham for December and Malaga in May 2018. This extended flights from Manchester in January and February 2018 so customers can book means customers will have Arctic Experience holidays. There are also the new resorts of Yllas for the Santa Trips and the chance to visit the best Pallas for the Arctic Experience holidays. that the Western Commenting on the new brochure the company's sales director Gary Anslow said: Mediterranean has to offer “We’ve been filling our Santa trips from Gatwick and Manchester for many years, so adding including city favourites extra capacity from Birmingham in December 2017 is brilliant. The new brochure does a like Rome, Barcelona and great job in sharing what this fantastic product is all about. Lisbon, as well as lesser- “It also covers our extended January and February 2018 ‘Arctic Experience’ trips. We started known Spanish gems like this programme from Gatwick last year. It sold really well and we had some great feedback, so Tarragona, Mahon this year we have extended the programme to include Manchester departures.” and Roses. Santa Trips from Birmingham start from £699 per person with new Arctic Experience Spirit's summer 2018 holidays starting from £475 from Manchester. itineraries go on sale on Key selling points for agents including the low £59 per person deposit message, 23kg hold July 27 and customers will luggage, detailed flight schedules and hints and tips about each resort. receive a free all-inclusive For further information visit monarchagents.co.uk upgrade for a limited time.
Celebrity Cruises launches agent toolkit for LGBT+ community AS PART of its ongoing commitment to welcoming the destinations, on-board images and Rainbow Celebrity Cruises LGBT+ community, both as guests and trade partners, logo. These are in addition to two dedicated videos with a Celebrity Cruises has announced the launch of a comprehensive overview of the brand and the line's newest dedicated toolkit designed to support agents in ship due to launch in 2018, Celebrity Edge, plus a print engaging with this market. advertisement template for agent partners to promote. The comprehensive kit includes a host of tools and Claire Stirrup, the line's director of sales, said: "We are marketing collateral, with a dedicated communications keen to provide our partners with the knowledge they need guide in addition to a number of recommended to market to the LGBT+ traveller and to ensure they have itineraries for agents to promote. the tools in place to do so. We are keen to be the cruise Selected itineraries to inspire guests include Signature line of choice for LGBT+ guests and are passionate about Event sailings. For example, guests can celebrate the supporting agents in selling to this audience. The toolkit Chinese New Year as part of a 14-night China, Vietnam has been designed to be both informative and inspirational and Thailand sailing and experience all the fun of carnival and we look forward to working with agents to continue in Rio with a 14-night South America and Carnival sailing. this important area of training in the future.” The toolkit also features a bank of images including For more information see cruisingforexcellence.co.uk
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Flight savings & room discounts from Barbados properties Bougainvillea & Sugar Bay BOUGAINVILLEA BEACH Resort and its sister property receive up to £300 air credit plus room discounts and Sugar Bay Barbados are offering a flight credit up to families booking a suite at Sugar Bay will receive 15% £600 off bookings made in July for travel through to off their rooms plus £600 off flights. December 2017. Sugar Bay offers a free kids club and crèche for Combined with up to 15% off room rates and the infants whilst Bougainvillea allows all children up to age current kids stay and play free Brilliant Barbados island 15 to stay free year-round. wide campaign, the four-star beachfront resorts are Both properties are sold by all major UK tour operators. offering added family value this summer. For details see sugarbaybarbados.com and Couples can opt for rooms at either property and bougainvillearesort.com
Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts’ newest BITES hotel opens in London’s South Bank NEWS PARK PLAZA Hotels & Resorts has announced the official opening of its new hotel, Park Plaza London
Waterloo – the biggest hotel opening in London for 2017. G PALLADIUM HOTELS & Resorts is rebranding its adults-only luxury The 494-room hotel is ideally located next to Waterloo resorts known as The Royal Suites by Palladium to TRS Hotels. The station and directly opposite Lambeth North station and rebrand includes a fresh and elegant look on property as well as an offers the ideal choice for those wanting to stay in the updated marketing campaign and logo. sightseeing hub of London’s South Bank. The hotel features superior rooms, studio rooms G THE BRITISH Tourism & Travel Show 2018 has announced the launch and one-bedroom suites, all-day dining, an exclusive of a new ‘Destination Europe’ area when it returns next year to the executive lounge and a spa and gym with a swimming NEC Birmingham on March 21-22. See tourismshow.co.uk pool, all of which combine to make for an ideal base from which to explore the city. G THIS SUMMER, Bramble Ski and Haute Montagne have announced Nightly rates for studio rooms start from £179. the launch of two new bespoke road biking packages for guests in For further information visit parkplaza.com/waterloo the Swiss-alpine resort of Verbier. The chalet operators are partnering with Haut Velo and Kudos Cycling to offer holidaymakers a variety of bike-based activities and day trips. Details at hautemontagne.com and brambleski.com
G WITH LESS than a year to go until the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, the Foreign Office has launched a campaign to help fans travelling to support their team. The ‘Be on the Ball campaign’ gives supporters advice and tips to help reduce preventable problems and boost their World Cup experience. For details see http://bit.ly/2tloNCQ
G SCENIC AND Emerald Waterways have announced support for Reuben’s Retreat, a charity dedicated to supporting families and children living with life-limiting or life-threatening illness. As part of the cruise brands’ River Rewards trade incentive programme, £5 will be donated to the charity for every prize claim made.
G RICHARD BRANSON has relocated and upgraded the Branson Centre FLYBE TO THE MOON...A Flybe plane decorated in the Welcome to of Entrepreneurship (BCE), which is funded by Virgin Holidays, to Yorkshire livery has travelled more than 800,000 miles in the last 12 Kingston, Jamaica. The centre has helped countless entrepreneurs months - the equivalent of 32 times around the world - showcasing Yorkshire across 15 different countries. Pictured marking the across Jamaica and the Caribbean to kick start their business dreams. milestone, which flies out of Doncaster Sheffield Airport to destinations including France, Holland, Portugal, Italy, Germany, the G THE GOVERNMENT of Vietnam has confirmed that it is extending its Channel Islands, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, are, from the left: Steve visa exemption programme for UK passport holders for single-entry Gill, Doncaster Sheffield Airport; Vincent Hodder, Flybe; and Sir Gary Verity from Welcome to Yorkshire. stays of up to 15 days, until June 30, 2018.
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Titan’s 2018 Worldwide brochure OUT NOW! Showcasing Titan’s agship collection of escorted tours
16 BRAND NEW TRAVEL ADVENTURES Including Nepal, Thailand and Uruguay
MAXIMUM DISCOUNTS and protected prices for early bookers
VIP DOOR-TO-DOOR TRAVEL SERVICE included free on every Titan holiday, excluding the essential collection For more information please £99 visit www.titanagents.co.uk per person * B deposit 7 oo 1 k 20 by 31 July
ENJOY A MEAL OUT ON US! Prize draw every FRIDAY in July† £10 LifestyleLifestyle Plus voucher forfor TO ENTER AND CLAIM FOR every booking VOUCHERS PLEASE EMAIL [email protected]
T&C’s: *£99 deposit valid for the majority of Titan holidays, though there are a few higher deposit exceptions, which will be advised at point of sale. Book by 31 July 2017. †Valid for new bookings made between 1-31 July. Prize draw will take place on Friday 7th, 14th 21st July & Monday 31st July 2017. Please claim within 7 days of making the booking. Agents are responsible for their own tax implications. S02 TB 1407 2017 News_Layout 1 12/07/2017 10:25 Page 8
newsbulletin At home
What has homeworker Eileen with Eileen...been up to this month? HOPE you’ve all been making the most of the beautiful sunny weather we’ve been experiencing in Ithe last few weeks. Returning from Australia last month, it was great to come back to good weather for a change. In fact, it’s been hotter here than it was when we were in Sydney. However, the weather was still SeaWorld Orlando brings summer warm and sunny with temperatures in the early 20s, despite it being late autumn there. May is actually nights to life with new celebration quite a good time to travel as air fares tend to be SEAWORLD ORLANDO has introduced a new summer cheaper and everywhere is far less crowded. nights show, Electric Ocean, which will run until August 5. I ran out of space last time to tell you about my The evening event transforms the park into an short trip to the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, imaginative and immersive undersea world that glows, which is about 100k north of Brisbane and a 90 entertains and excites. minute flight from Sydney. Families come together for a fun-filled and unique dance The Sunshine Coast boasts mile after mile of stunning party at Club Sea Glow, featuring world-class DJs and 35 beaches and crystal clear waters and has something to live performers. Specialty acts, puppeteers and suit everyone. Its focal point is the beautiful, upmarket entertainers interact with the crowd throughout the night, and laid-back resort of Noosa which is where we stayed. creating an outdoor night club for guests of all ages. Our choice of hotel was the eco-designed Peppers The evening concludes when 'Ignite' erupts across the Resort which is in a great location, just a short walk from park’s lake. The new nightly firework display includes the fashionable Hastings Street with its designer synchronised water effects that shoot up to 100ft in the air, boutiques and smart eateries and the beautiful Laguna choreographed to a powerful musical score. The night sky Beach. We really enjoyed our stay here and would have illuminates with pyrotechnic effects, towering flames and no hesitation in recommending this property. intricate laser projections. The highlight of our trip to Noosa was a day trip by Meanwhile, the return of fan-favourite 'Sea Lions Tonite' boat to explore the Noosa Everglades, one of Australia’s leaves guests laughing during a parody skit about a most beautiful wilderness areas. It was really lovely SeaWorld visit through the eyes of sea lion superstars, cruising along the Noosa river and then entering this Clyde and Seamore. The show also features one of the beautiful and tranquil area of mirrored waterways and park’s favorite acts, the SeaWorld Mime, setting the tone lakes. The area is rich in wildlife and over 44% of all for a fun-filled time. Australia’s bird species reside in this region. Oh, why With extended park hours, thrill seekers are invited to didn’t I remember my binoculars! take on the park's three iconic coasters under the stars - Mako, Manta and Kraken Unleashed. For further information visit seaworldagents.co.uk
Post-Xmas option from Santa's Lapland SANTA’S LAPLAND is offering a Post-Christmas Santa’s Magic Break from December 27-29 from £2,519 per family, staying at Santa’s Hotel Tunturi in a Type A Room, including half-board for three days. Departing from Gatwick and Manchester, the package includes flights, transfers, accommodation and thermal clothing, plus all of Santa’s inclusive activities - a Noosa, Queensland's Sunshine Coast snowmobile search for Santa’s hideaway log cabin home; a private meeting with Santa for each family; a gift for children under 13; a husky sled ride; a reindeer sleigh ride; visiting the elves and Igloo Fantasia; and snow and ice fun activities. All prices are based on a family of two adults and one by EILEEN SAUNDERS of Travel Counsellors child aged two to five. To respond to any of Eileen’s comments email For more information or to book see santaslapland.com or [email protected] call 01483-791915.
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Booking incentives Fancy a fam?
G Travel 2 is giving agents the chance to FUNWAY HAS announced plans to run win one of two luxury carry-on luggage two fam trips to the US taking place cases worth £330 as part of its latest this September and October. The first campaign, ‘Did someone say USa & Canada?’ The campaign is being run in heads to Orlando followed by the Great conjunction with United airlines and air Lakes, with a total of six agents invited Canada to showcase the wonders of North to attend each trip. Invites are being america. To be in with a chance of offered to members of The 500 Club. winning, agents should make a qualifying booking to the US or Canada, including flights with either of the carrier partners and a minimum of three nights' ground arrangement before July 31.
G For every Saga Travel booking made this month, the operator is giving agents £100 in shopping vouchers for every ocean cruise booked and £20 for every holiday or river cruise. agents will also be entered into a prize draw to win a place on one of three fam trips - a seven-night ‘Best of the West’ US trip; a four-night Madeira option; or a Saga Sapphire cruise fam. agents should email [email protected] with the details of each booking made.
G regeNT SeveN Seas Cruises has launched ‘Sell 2 & Sail Free’, a new booking incentive where agents could find themselves enjoying a Mediterranean cruise on the newly refurbished Seven Seas voyager. agents booking any two Seven Seas voyager Mediterranean cruises BOURNE BREAK...Pictured celebrating Bourne which sail up to September 28 will Leisure's Summer Lovin’ incentive is Becky Newberry receive a free luxury suite. There are (left) and Janine Bursey (right) from East of England 12 classic Mediterranean voyages Co Operative in Clacton with the operator's sales available for agents to sell to their executive, Gemma Wilks. Agents can earn voucher customers and to choose to cruise incentives for every Butlin’s, Haven and Warner Leisure themselves. Bookings can be on different Hotels booking they make between now and August 13. sailings and be made by different team members within an agency, but must be made by July 31. For more information email [email protected] Agent offer G all ageNT bookings made with Mark Warner in the Wimbledon fortnight (which runs until July 16) go into a draw to TO CELEBRATE the release of Newmarket Holidays' 2018 win a Wimbledon hamper. agents booking Escorted Holiday Collection by Air brochure, 50 platinum tickets a tennis course for their clients have been randomly placed into the new brochure packs that receive a double entry. To enter, email will be arriving with agents this month. If an agent finds a ticket they could win a short-haul break for two, a West End the booking reference to break for two, a Samsung Galaxy Tablet or a £20 Love2Shop ‘[email protected]’ with the voucher. To redeem the prize, agents must post a picture of subject 'Wimbledon Competition'. themselves with the platinum ticket to Nic Newmarket on Facebook and quote their winning code by July 31.
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newsbulletin Up to £500 savings on French river cruises from AmaWaterways AMAWATERWAYS IS offering guests the chance to save £500 per person on last minute sailings along the French rivers this summer. The company's Taste of Bordeaux sailings follow a Mark Warner's San Lucianu Resort, Corsica route along the Garonne River and its surrounding estuaries, exploring one of the world’s most famous wine capitals. Guests have the opportunity to visit Bordeaux’s famous chateaux and vineyards with stops at Cadillac’s Roquetaillaide Castle, a Medoc wine tasting in Pauillac and an excursion at Chateau de Montaigne in Libourne. The operator's Paris and Normandy sailing, which travels along the Seine River are ideal for history and staffreview art lovers as they become inspired by the same Travel Bulletin’s editor, Lauretta Wright, stayed for three nights landscapes that captivated artists like Monet, Renoir at Mark Warner’s three-star San Lucianu Resort in Corsica on and Gauguin, along with visits to the Normandy all-inclusive. Here’s what she thought of the resort… Beaches and Les Andelys. Meanwhile, Rhône & Provence sailings will satisfy First impressions ...... 10/10 food and wine lovers, with visits to famed wine regions I received a warm welcome and check-in was smooth. Staff such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Beaujolais and Côte du seemed friendly and I was given my room keys straight Rhône, as well as the opportunity to visit an olive farm away. The family-friendly hotel is in a peaceful location with and the chance to go hunting for the prized ‘Black mountains offering a stunning background. Diamond’ truffle. Prices for a seven-night Taste of Bordeaux, which Comfort ...... 8/10 departs on July 27, leads in at £2,011 per person (from The resort has a fun vibe to it with young staff and £2,511). It includes all meals on-board (with local wine, colourful décor in public areas. The newly refurbished beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner), the Chefs rooms were spacious and comfortable (half of the Table dining experience, a choice of complimentary daily hotel’s rooms have been updated), but I would have liked tours and excursions, complimentary Wi-Fi and use of on to have seen hairdryers in the room. board bicycles for Active Discovery ashore and port taxes. For further information see amawaterways.co.uk or call Quality ...... 9/10 0800-320 2336. Very impressed with the quality of food. For a three-star, the a la carte menu was superb and the variety of free watersports offered is great – sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and wind-surfing. Other free activities include cycling and tennis, while day and evening activities and entertainment for the whole family were plentiful. A couple of minor things need addressing – mainly aesthetics – but otherwise it was great quality for a three-star. Affordability ...... 9/10 A week’s off-peak getaway costs from £679 for seven nights’ full board based on two sharing and including flights and transfers. However, for an extra £120 per adult and £65 per child, per week you can upgrade to all- inclusive – definitely worth doing if you’re a family or enjoy staying on resort. A peak getaway this month costs from £1,095 per adults and £979 per child. Service ...... 10/10 Spot on! Staff made a real effort to engage in conversation and seemed genuinely interested in what we were doing. They were also very knowledgeable and were keen to offer tips. Service was always with a smile and staff went out of their way to make life easier. The resort offers a social table at dinner for solo travellers which is a great idea! BARBADOS BABES…The Luxury West Coast Hotels Group and Good to know...... the BTMI played host to a group of agents at the inaugural Barbados Cup at Hurtwood Park Polo Club. The day started with Definitely try the walk to the waterfall (40 mins one-way) networking over a Bajan Rum Punch, product updates from where you can swim in the crystal clear lagoon & it’s worth partners, lunch and a polo-based activity for attendees. hiring a car to do some exploring. Pictured are, from the left: Colleen Williamson, Quality Travel; Victoria Cranmer from Paradise Promotions, representing Port Overall scoring: ...... 9 Ferdinand Marina and Luxury Residences and Saint Peter’s Bay / Resort and Residences; and Gail Watkins from Quality Travel. 10 For details see visitbarbados.org
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puzzlebulletin Su Doku Win a £50 M&S voucher in thetravel bulletinSu Doku prize puzzle Where Am I?
Number: 028 A «
B «
C «
D «
Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9. Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to: [email protected] Closing date for entries is Thursday, July 20th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next issue. Protruding out of the rolling prairie surrounding the Black The winner for Jet2Holidays 30th June is Elaine Price, Hills, this national monument was once considered sacred to Spear Travels in Wolverhampton the Northern Plains Indians. Its hundreds of parallel cracks June 30th Solution: A=5 B=1 C=4 D=2 makes it popular with climbers.
Crossword Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares.
Across Down 1. Well-known hotel brand (7,3) 1. Welsh journalist, presenter of News At 6. Capital of Venezuela (7) Ten (3,7) 7. Flows through Derby (7) 2. Swiss city with a famous 14th century 9. Federico Fellini, Rimini airport code (3) covered wooden bridge (7) 10. Alcoholic brew found in Palermo (3) 3. The resort of Cancún is on this peninsula (7) 11. North African country (7) 4. Lynden Pindling, Nassau International airport 12. Guernsey based operator specialising in code (3) holidays for 18-35's (7) 5. Capital of Ethiopia (5,5) 13. Cosmopolitan Moroccan city (10) 8. Country on the Baltic (7) 9. Nationality of tennis star, Maria Sharapova (7) 12. Airline operating out of Prague, initially (3)
For the solution to the Crossword and Where Am I?
Number: 028 Number: Please see page 26
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Industry Insight by...
Hazel Bryant, director at Travel With Kitts, explains why taking yourself out of your comfort zone can be a valuable learning lesson…
EVERY DAY varies in travel – you never know what you will my team, when they are in fact completely capable. It need to tackle or to achieve, or what clients will ask of was extremely rewarding to just sit back and observe you. Sometimes huge challenges face us – on a different how well they can work together. and much more personal level than, for example, the I would advise any travel business owner or manager to volcanic ash cloud of a few years ago or the recent British try the same exercise – to attend the office without Airways IT meltdown. Something like this happened to speaking for at least a day. This also encourages the team AITO Agent, Travel with Kitts this spring. to act on their own instinct, instead of feeling as if they need constantly to ask for help. A new challenge Trust them – after all, you employed them! They’ll One of our clients contacted us and asked for help. The be far more confident and effective in the long run if situation was very delicate and needed to be handled you occasionally step back and let them solve with care. Michelle is 42 years old and is fighting a problems, either by themselves or as a team. You brain tumour with two young children. Having booked may well be out of your comfort zone, but I can her honeymoon, we wanted to help her to find and assure you that it’s well worth it. plan her special holiday. The requirements were to travel abroad as soon as possible, with no flying involved and with full insurance. “I would advise any travel business owner or manager We did it! We found the right holiday but, due to the huge costs of to attend the office without travel insurance with full medical cover, I wanted (and needed, for my own peace of mind) to help this family. speaking for at least a day” We had to raise some money - and fast - so I set myself the challenge of a sponsored silence to help In total, we raised £1,700 and I’m enormously raise funds towards both the insurance costs and for proud to know that our company made a huge the brain tumour charity to use for research purposes. difference to a family trying to make it through a very Every day I chat to clients and tour operators, as well difficult time, as well as supporting a key charity. as friends and colleagues. For those who know me, Being a small independent agency allows us to be this was going to take me completely out of my comfort flexible when we encounter such challenges. The fact zone…listening, observing and not being able to input that we also sell AITO members specialist holidays at all! It was, I can assure you, very hard. Half way enables us to see a very broad travel landscape through the 48 hours I realised that, personally for which attracts a wide variety of customers. We never me, it’s far too easy to get involved or to interrupt know who is going to walk through the door next.
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SMILING STARS…It was smiles all around from the team at Five Star Travel after they completed The Global Travel Group’s three- day training course at the consortium’s dedicated training centre in Chester. Pictured is the consortium’s Mark Rowlands (far left) and Rob Griffiths (far right) with Peter Daniell and Mich elle Daniell from Five Star Travel.
Agents discover exotic highlights & boutique holiday options in South India INTERSIGHT TOURS & Travels and a holiday to the region. Tours & Travels, said: "The UK is an South Indian Trails, a group of eight Southern India boasts a rich extremely important inbound market boutique hotels and resorts located historical and cultural past, made up to South India and we felt the across the southern region of India, of long coastlines on the east and roadshow was a great opportunity to recently brought South India to the west as well as the Western and update the UK travel industry on the UK in the form of a travel trade Eastern Ghat mountain ranges and a diverse tourism products available in roadshow. variety of wildlife and exotic fauna. It the region. The events were a great The roadshow, which took place provides a stark contrast to North success and as a result, we look in Glasgow, Cardiff and London, India, with iconic regions such as forward to further strengthening our provided the opportunity for agents Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and relationship with the British travel from each city to meet with Pondicherry, as well as some trade industry." representatives of the brands, with beautiful beaches. Visit southindiatrails.com or one-on-one appointments with each Abraham George, chairman and intersighttours.com for more hotel partner and the chance to win managing director of Intersight information.
Agents get a taste for Brazil during VBRATA Mall of America launches first Brazilian roadshow travel agent training programme MALL OF America in Bloomington, Minnesota, has VBRATA (VISIT BRAZIL TRAVEL ASSOCIATION) held a launched its new travel agent training programme. series of agent training events across the UK earlier this The OTT Mall of America programme highlights key month. The VBRATA Brazilian roadshow, which was areas for UK travel agents to focus on including selling designed to promote Brazil and Brazilian suppliers to points and fun facts. the British travel trade, took place in Southampton, Doug Killian, director of the retail and entertainment Colchester and in Leeds. complex said: “This is the first training programme for UK Exhibitors that attended included The Brazilian Tourist and Irish agents for the Mall; we hope the programme will Board (EMBRATUR), LATAM Airlines, TAP Portugal, Gol continue the growth of international visitors to Mall of Airlines, Azul Airlines and Chimu Adventures. America and Minnesota and improve the knowledge base of Ahead of the events, Chris Fuzinatto, European travel agents of the products on offer. As we mark the 25th chairman for the association, said: “The VBRATA Brazilian anniversary of Mall of America in 2017, we wanted to really Road Show, which is in its 12th edition in the UK, is an showcase to the UK travel agents what a great destination annual event organised by VBRATA to promote Brazil to we are for travellers, and this training programme will British travel agents. This edition of the VBRATA Brazilian allow us to do that.” roadshow will take place in Brazilian restaurants, so we Mall of America has more than 520 stores, the largest can also promote Brazilian gastronomy to the agents. indoor amusement park in the US, an aquarium, cinema, With support from UK based suppliers, we will cover wedding chapel and two connecting hotels. these three important UK cities, stimulating travel agents The company will be giving away ten Nickelodeon soft to find out more about Brazil.” toys to agents who complete the training programme Go to vbrata.org.uk for more details. before September 29.
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FUNWAY HOLIDAYS ran a series of training events focusing on ‘Florida Beaches’ last month. Pictured at the Edinburgh event are, from the left: the operator’s Lizi Wharton; Deborah McGlashan from Jimmy Martin Travel who won a holiday voucher and hamper; Funway’s Amy Drummond; and Hannah Norris representing Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Silversea launches new badge on agent training portal SILVERSEA HAS added a new badge to its online training portal along with a chance for agents to win a ten-day voyage on its new expedition ship, Silver Cloud. BOURNE LEISURE recently rewarded its second quarterly The Silversea Academy allows travel agents to online training winner of 2017. Darren Wetherell from Hays become experts across all areas of the cruise line and Travel in Wallsend, Newcastle was gifted with a FitbitPLUS by offers a wealth of information to help build their the company’s Louise Tansey and will receive a free day pass knowledge of the brand. to experience the property of his choice across the company’s brand portfolio. The ‘Train with Brainz’ online training course The new ‘Silver Cloud’ badge will allow agents to enables agents to remain up to date on the latest learn extensively about the soon-to-be refurbished developments and product updates from all three of its brands: cruise ship. Silver Cloud will complete her final season Butlin’s, Haven and Warner Leisure Hotels. in the classic fleet at the end of August, and following extensive refurbishment, will be converted into an ice- class vessel destined primarily for polar waters. This new badge will provide agents with everything they need to know about the vessel, from its suites and restaurants to its varied itineraries, A BOSE SPEA To celebrate the launch, agents who achieve 100% on IN KER the module before September 6 will be entered into a W prize draw to win a cruise on the newly refurbished ship. Beginning in London on June 2, 2018, the winning agent will experience first hand the cruise line’s offering on a ten-day voyage to Leith (Edinburgh) on a tour of the British Isles. The prize will mark one of the ship’s maiden UK voyages following her transition into an ice-class vessel. Connie Georgiou, the line’s head of trade sales and partnerships for UK and Ireland, said: “We are delighted to welcome Silver Cloud to our expedition fleet in November. Its addition will increase Silversea’s capacity in the polar regions in response to high demand for expedition cruises. Our expedition ships are designed to take our guests to some of the most remote places on the planet while offering our world-renowned ultra-luxury service. We hope our new ‘Silver Cloud’ module will provide agents with a fun and informative We love running competitions to IF YOU ARE NEW TO OUR way to learn about the ship and her transition to the reward travel agents for becoming AGENT SITE, WHY NOT SeaWorld Parks Experts. By regularly COMPLETE THE TRAINING expedition fleet.” visiting our site, you will learn about: AS WELL AND WIN MORE Agents can already access the ‘Silversea Graduate’ and ‘Silver Muse’ modules. The ‘Silversea Graduate’ - Our amazing parks GREAT PRIZES! - Tickets and SeaWorld Parks Extras module provides agents with the chance to gain a broad - News and conservation understanding of the cruise line’s products and the processes needed to make a booking. Agents completing Throughout July you could win the ‘Silver Muse’ module can learn all about the one of fi ve Bose speakers by visiting www.seaworldagents.co.uk and company’s new flagship - from her public areas and answering one simple question restaurants to the full range of suites. about our parks. To visit the online training academy visit silverseaacademy.com
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Cyprus announces most successful April for visitor arrivals Photo Markus credit: Bassler THE CYPRUS Tourism Organisation (CTO) has revealed that April 2017 was the most successful April on record in terms of global tourist arrivals. Numbers reached Family friendly option 286,331, compared to 225,575 of the same month last year, representing a year-on- from Simply Luxury by T2 year increase of 26.9% and the highest volume of tourist arrivals to the country ever SIMPLY LUXURY by Travel 2 recorded during the month of April. is highlighting the Almyra Of these arrivals, the UK remains one of the main sources for tourism to the hotel in Cyprus for family country making up 37.1% of the total number of visitors. This figure also represented holidays thanks to the range a 16.3% year-on-year increase in visitors from the United Kingdom. of activities on offer for Overall, the majority of visitors to Cyprus in April of this year categorised the children of all ages, purpose of their trip as a holiday (78.9%) with 14.3% stating they were visiting friends including a kids club. and relatives and 6.6% travelling for business. At 55.3%, slightly more women visited Baby care (baby the destination in April 2017 than men and the majority of tourists (44%) were aged equipment hire that can be between 20-44 years. pre-ordered) and a teenage Orestis Rossides, UK director of the CTO, said: “This year, we’re seeing record club are both available numbers of tourists attracted by Cyprus’ year-round sunshine, beautiful scenery, during the summer holidays legendary hospitality and range of activities from cycling, scuba diving, trekking and at sister hotel Annabella. golf to world-class spas. We’re looking forward to a successful summer season to Designed so that children cement 2017 as a record-breaking year for Cyprus.” can mix with others of their For more information go to visitcyprus.com own age group, there are also different clubs for kids depending on their age with Attraction World parties hard in Agia Napa activities tailored to that age FOR 2017 Attraction World has put together three party hard event packages designed group. There is also a for agents to make their clients’ holidays fun-filled and cost-effective, with prices children’s swimming pool starting from £49 per person. and play area and a The operator highlights that its packages will be able to save holidaymakers more selection of restaurants money than compared to buying in resort and that its offering cannot be found anywhere offering children’s menus else, with access to some of the top Agia Napa events taking place this summer. ensuring plenty of dining As an example, the Essentials Package has been put together so that choice for the families. holidaymakers might experience some of the best events in resort, with the chance to The Almyra hotel in party into the early hours to live acts and with lots of like-minded party people. It Paphos is located ten includes a Napa Rocks Pool Party with a free bar for one hour; ‘Addicted to Bass’ also minutes’ walk from the with a one-hour free bar; free club tickets to four different clubs (depending on the harbour and the hotel is on date); and a Party Hard summer t-shirt. the seafront with a sea-front In addition, agents can win a place on a trip with the operator for the chance to facing main pool, an adults- party hard themselves in Ibiza this September. Agents need to make a booking for any only infinity pool and four ‘Party Hard’ location to be entered into the prize draw. restaurants as well as a spa Booking references should be emailed to [email protected] with nine treatment rooms.
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Planet Holidays adds the Parklane Resort & Spa to portfolio for 2018 PLANET HOLIDAYS has added the and indoor pools, a wedding chapel, a Heathrow on April 10, 2018. Parklane; a Luxury Collection Resort 300m long beach, and a business and Mathilde Robert, managing director & Spa found in Limassol. The conference centre. Children facilities for Planet Weddings, said: “The operator’s Harry Kyrillou commented: include a Princess and Pirates park, Parklane will do exceptionally well for “Although this luxurious hotel will not where a castle and a pirate ship with weddings as it has a superb location officially open until March 2018, we water slides and its own restaurant and high standards with plenty of are delighted to feature it as there is beckons. Teenagers have access to a choice for couples looking to get a real demand for this calibre of mini-football pitch, plus other sports married in Cyprus and wanting a resort hotel in Cyprus.” facilities including a bowling alley, quality venue with superb facilities and The property will feature a total of disco and e-games room. services. I can see many UK couples 247 rooms including an adults-only Prices through the operator start choosing this newly launched resort wing with 52 suites and rooms with from £791.50 per person for seven hotel as it will inspire truly special private pools. On-site facilities are to nights accommodation based on two nuptials on an island that attracts include seven restaurants, four bars, adults sharing a Premium thousands of weddings.” ballroom, nightclub, fitness centre, Guestroom on bed-and-breakfast, Visit planet-holiddays.co.uk or water sports, spa, kids club, outdoor departing on scheduled flights from call 01438-841270 for more details.
The Elysium partners with championship golf courses THE ELYSIUM has partnered with four of the island’s championship level, 18-hole golf courses - including Aphrodite Hills Golf Club, Secret Valley Golf Club, Minthis Hills Golf Club and Elea Estate Golf Club - to create a series of golfing itineraries, ranging from three to seven days. Located a 25–35 minute drive away from each of the golf clubs, the five-star resort aims to attract golfers of all levels, looking to enhance their game whilst enjoying the setting of its Mediterranean backdrop. Golfers can choose between a three-, five-, or seven-night package, each of which includes a minimum of two green fees with car rental or taxi transfer for the duration of the visit. The Aphrodite Hills Golf Club features a year round, 18- hole championship golf course and offers a dedicated three-hole Golf Academy designed for golfers of all standards (The Aphrodite Hills will be undergoing some renovation works until February 2, 2018). Players will also have access to the Secret Valley Golf Club, nestled in a scenic valley by Petra tou Romiou, the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite. Also boasting a historical location, the Minthis Hills Golf Club is situated at an altitude of 550m above sea level, in the grounds of a twelfth century monastery. Meanwhile the challenging Par 71 Elea Estate Golf Club offers world-class golf in a picturesque Cypriot setting. OLYMPIC HOLIDAYS is suggesting that it’s not too late for Back at the resort, hotel guests can take full advantage clients to explore Paphos, the European Capital of Culture of the facilities on offer, including a range of ESPA rituals for 2017. A seven-night package leads in at £431 per person at the Opium Spa and locally sourced cuisine at five on- (based on two travelling) and includes accommodation at the four-star Avlida Hotel on a half-board basis in a twin site restaurants. The Golf & Drive itineraries include room inland view and Gatwick flights. Departures are accommodation in a deluxe inland view room with a available on September 27. Visit olympicholidays.com buffet breakfast.
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cyprus Classic adds more properties in anticipation of increased interest in Paphos IN ANTICIPATION of increased visitor numbers to Cyprus, given Paphos’ status as European City of Culture 2017, Classic Collection Holidays has added four new properties for summer 2017. These include the Azia Resort & Spa, near Paphos, the St Raphael Resort, near Limassol and the 43-room Casale Panayiotis Hotel & Spa in the Troodos Mountains; a unique mountain retreat which is integrated completely into the rejuvenated, ancient spa village of Kalopanayiotis. Re-opening in September, following an extensive renovation and amalgamation of two hotels into one all- suite property, is the Columbia Beach Resort. The experience of other towns and cities which have previously been recipients of the European City of Culture award, points to a considerable upsurge in tourism with the additional benefit of this greater interest continuing far beyond the year itself. So far a total of approximately 60million Euros has been invested in Photo Arsirya credit: various arrangements for Paphos’ period as European City of Culture. There’s a plethora of cultural activities planned – art, music, theatre, dance, photography, animation, cinema and literature – many of which are open air and free-to-attend events. Much of the main investment has focussed on improvements to the infrastructure of Paphos including the upgrading of public squares and streets, improvements to the old commercial centre and the renovation of the municipal market. Other projects include the improvement of the Paphos promenade, the building of coastal hotels and improvements to Paphos airport. The town’s theatre, The Markideio, has also received funding of nearly four million Euros for general enhancement and upgrading. There has been the restoration of archaeological sites in the area, as well as other infrastructure improvements to the benefit of visitors and islanders. The operator is offering seven-nights at the adults-only Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites, Paphos from £1,571 per person in July, on bed-and-breakfast for two sharing a junior suite, with flights and private transfers. In addition, the operator currently has more than 40 special offers including early booking deals, reduced hotel rates plus complimentary board and room upgrades on hotels in Paphos. Call 0800-008 7288 or visit classic-collection.co.uk for more details.
Discover Larnaka’s lost worlds AN EXCURSION to any of Larnaka region’s villages can be a fascinating experience thanks to the character and customs that can found in each one. However, visitors might be interested to know about three ‘abandoned villages’ just begging to be explored. There are various reasons why villages on the island have been abandoned, including war, natural disasters and lack of work for the locals. In Larnaka, the villages Drapia and Parsata are classed as deserted, but visitors can freely visit and explore them – discovering a lost world of Cyprus. The Medieval village, Drapia (originally known as Paliodapiais) is located 4km northwest of Kalavasos, on the east bank of the Vassilikos River. It was abandoned in the early 19th century, as a result of the closure of the Kalavasos mines, which provided employment for the villagers. Visitors can see stone-built houses with roofed beams in the ruins of the village, and the stone-built Medieval St. George chapel, amongst the natural overgrowth that now provides a home for local wildlife. Adjoining Drapia is another abandoned settlement – Parsata, which also relied on the Kalavasos mines for employment, and was dissolved at a similar time as Drapia. Some of the inhabitants set-up home in Kalavasos village instead. The village also has remains of typical stone-built houses, with wooden doors and roofs of various materials, in addition to charming countryside views. Petrofani is located about 2.5km southwest of Athienou village, and was a Turkish Cypriot village from the Ottoman period. It was abandoned in 1974, having around 170 inhabitants at the time. Only the ruins of the village now remain, which can be viewed from the outskirts, or the road. For more information visit larnakaregion.com
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Trade gets insight into Mexico through Acapulco event and Puerto Vallarta visit by PAUL SCUDAMORE
EXICO TOOK centre stage for the industry earlier this year when it held its annual WTM-style trade show event, Tianguis Turistico, in Acapulco, which also hosted the first MTianguis in 1975. The capital of the country’s Guerrero region played host to tour operators and media from around the world for the four-day gathering which featured all areas of the country and enabled operators from more than 80 countries to meet with representatives of all aspects of the country’s tourism industry. The tourist office used the occasion to highlight various facts about the country, such as it being the ninth most visited country in the world last year, according to the World Tourism Organisation, having 34 World Heritage sites, the most in the Americas, and 76 airports, 63 of which are international. The event was followed by a number of post-Tianguis familiarisation trips, one of which was to Puerto Vallarta, further up the Pacific coast from Acapulco. The city is sprawled along the massive Banderas Bay which has a marina, international airport and hotel zone at one end, a central Boardwalk and Downtown area, and a South Zone of more resort hotels, several of which are five-star. International brands include Westin, Riu, Melia, Holiday Inn, Hilton, Sheraton, Hyatt and Barcelo. Other international properties include Holiday Inn Express, Howard Johnson, Best Western and Comfort Inn. In all, the city offers around 22,000 rooms in 85 hotels of all categories, including 29 in its Downtown area. This features the cobbled streets of the Old Town which straddles the Cuale River and is packed with restaurants, cafes, bars, countless souvenir and specialist shops, and on the western side, some 15 art galleries. In the centre of the river is Isla Cuale which can be reached by a rope bridge and features a wide range of craft shops and speciality restaurants. The Boardwalk section is renowned for its outdoor sculptures and the spectacular Los Muertos Pier which was completely rebuilt four years ago and which has been described by CNN as one of the nine most beautiful piers in the world (not including Mr Morgan). The city offers a wide range of activities and adventures including dolphin and sea lion encounters, whale watching trips, off-road expeditions and a range of sea trips through Vallarta Adventures. The
company also offers wedding ceremonies and celebrations at its Las Caletas tropical beach hideaway, which is accessible only by boat from its maritime terminal in the Hotel Zone. The sprawling site is also the location for the company’s Rhythms of the Night all-inclusive excursion which operates from Monday- Saturday, with departures at sunset across the bay. The arrival at the cove sees guests greeted by a mermaid, with paths lit by several hundred torches and candles that lead to an amphitheatre for a story- telling show featuring contemporary dance and music, choreographed by a former Cirque du Soleil member, fire jugglers and spectacular costumes. Las Caletas was the former jungle hideaway of film director John Huston, and the five-hour evening also includes a candle-lit buffet dinner with wine and an open bar. Daytime trips are aimed at families and the site features several activities for children including an adventure park. The company also operates in Cancun and Cabo. See vallarta-adventures.com
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Adventurous & luxurious Mexico options presented by AMResorts AMRESORTS CURRENTLY has 28 properties in Mexico with plans for this number to continue to grow. For a chance to visit the famous Tulum Mayan Ruins the company recommends a stay at Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa. Located near to the eco-adventure attractions at Xel-Ha and cenotes, the resort itself is secluded on a white sand beach and housed within landscaped garden with more than 5,000 indigenous plants from around the region. Alternatively a stay at Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya can have guests diving with one of the largest green sea turtle populations in Mexico. The property is an all-suite resort with ground floor suites providing direct swim-out access to a pool from a private terrace. The resort is also located near a vast network of underground rivers and eco-adventure sports including mountain biking, snorkelling, scuba diving, trekking, bird watching, deep sea fishing, golf and shopping.
Gold Medal promotes culinary Grand Velas highlights wedding stays at One and Only Palmilla packages at Los Cabos resort FOR CLIENTS heading to Mexico and looking for a culinary GRAND VELAS Los Cabos is a new all-inclusive luxury Caribbean twist to their stay, Gold Medal is recommending beachfront resort in Los Cabos, Mexico. the One and Only Palmilla Hotel. The property reports that since its opening in Ashley Pilkington, the operator’s assistant product December 2016, it has been extremely well received manager for the US and Caribbean, said: “The property is and seeks to deliver ‘redefined’ luxury with 24-hour located on the idyllic Baja Coast and is home to Michelin- personal concierge service included amongst the starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. amenities found in the all-inclusive rate. “The restaurant is renowned for the finest steaks and With its beachfront location and event spaces, the freshest seafood, along with Mexico's most comprehensive resort is able to offer a variety of wedding packages wine list. The hotel takes guests on a journey of culinary including suite upgrades for the bride and groom and discovery with its five restaurants including private dining in their parents. Couples who choose to tie the knot at the the hotel’s herb garden and on the beach.” property can also benefit from a free night’s stay on The operator is offering five nights at the five-star resort bookings of more than four nights at the adults-only in an ocean front room on a bed-and-breakfast basis from Casa Velas to celebrate their first anniversary. £2,889 per person. The price includes flights and private Further details can be found at transfers and represents a saving of up to £380 per person. loscabos.grandvelas.com/weddings It is valid for travel between September 1 and 22. Visit goldmedal.co.uk or call 0800-014 7777 for more details. Funway Holidays sees strong 10% boost in bookings to Mexico FOLLOWING A joint sales and marketing agreement with AMResorts, Funway Holidays has reported a strong sales performance. The new campaign from both companies launched last month with a dedicated 24-page mini brochure including savings of up to 50% on holidays to Mexico, as well as the Caribbean and Dominican Republic. Malcolm Davies, product destination manager for Funway, said: “Mexico bookings are strong for us with sales up year-on- year. We are delighted to be partnering with AMResorts and the deals brochure, with savings on holidays to the Caribbean and Mexico, is one of many joint projects planned. “Although we may be a leading North American specialist we are now also becoming recognised as an established Caribbean and Mexico operator too. Working more closely with AMResorts will further strengthen our position.” CONTIKI IS offering travellers a 12-day MUNCH Mexico trip, As an example of packages, the operator is offering exploring the cuisine of Mexico with visits to Puerto Vallarta, seven nights in Cancun staying at the all-inclusive five-star Tequila, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa from £1,150 per person. City, Merida, Chichen Itza and Cancun. Foodies can enjoy Tequila The price is based on two adults sharing for an distillery tours, cocktail classes, market tours, salsa making classes and regional cooking demonstrations to get a flavour of October 13 departure and includes flights with Virgin some of the country’s biggest exports. Prices start from £1,698 Atlantic from London. per person and departures begin in July 2018. Visit funway4agents.co.uk for more details.
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OFFICIALLY OPENING this month, Travel 2 had added the Cape Kudu Hotel to its Asia offering. The five-star property is located on the quiet Thai island of Koh Yao Noi and provides a romantic escape for honeymooners and couples. Mark Mallinson, the operator’s assistant product manager for Asia, said: “There are pool villas for those looking up the romantic factor and a top tip is to take a speedboat to Phuket or a ferry to Krabi to see more of the local area. Agents can offer customers free room upgrades to a pool villa for stays until October 31.” Visit travel2.com
Wendy Wu launches new site for escorted tour bookings Pandaw launches WENDY WU Tours has officially launched a streamlined navigation and a user- new website enabling travel agents to book all friendly dashboard so tours can be found Members Club escorted tours, online, for the first time. and booked quickly. PANDAW EXPEDITIONS The new site will enable agents to book a Attending the London launch event and has announced a new group tour 24 hours a day in less than two commenting on the significant milestone that Members Club, designed to minutes, find all the latest prices, tour the new agents’ website marks in the reward guests who information and campaigns, as well as company’s history, Wendy Wu, founder and regularly choose to join the manage their ‘Bambu’ points (the company’s chairwoman of the company, said: “Travel river cruise company on its agent reward scheme) and see individual agents have amazing value. They're not just a Southeast Asia commissions for each tour at the point of sale. bridge between an operator and the customer expeditions. The technology behind the website is owned - they are an essential part of the process and The club entitles guests by the company and is the product of an they add significant value to both parties. to a free, unlimited wine extensive development process. “Now that we own our own technology we package to accompany Joe Karbo, group chief executive for the have the freedom to do a lot of things and I lunch and dinner onboard operator, said: “We have listened very carefully can proudly say that the sky’s the limit. Right their forthcoming to our agents throughout the design process now the site features fully inclusive packages expedition; a and have customised the portal with but in the future we will push out lots more complimentary laundry functionality specific to the trade. As a and different kinds of products that a service; a discount of $100 company, we are in the process of an customer might need - day tours, transfers on any pre- or post-cruise ambitious global digital transformation and cruise options – and we will become a extension booked; and overhaul, and we’re putting agents at the one stop shop for China and Asia.” access to discounts and centre of this change by delivering a site that To celebrate the launch of the trade special offers. dramatically speeds up the booking process, bookable website, every agent who confirms a It is free of charge to join provides a seamless experience and allows booking online from June 22 to July 31 will and guests need only to agents to concentrate on giving a superior receive a £50 incentive, which is automatically have cruised with the service to customers.” awarded to their online account, and will be company once to become a The site utilises responsive design, so entered into a draw to win a selection of prizes member at agents can easily move back and forth including hampers, action cameras, FitBits, Yo pandaw.com/members/join between their desktop, laptop, tablet or mobile Sushi vouchers, cinema tickets and a place When their previous cruise device when making a booking alongside on a fam trip. has been booked by a travel agent, customers can still join the Members Vietnam extends visa waiver for Brits for another year Club by registering their THE GOVERNMENT of Vietnam has confirmed that it will again be extending its visa exemption name, email address and programme for UK passport holders for single-entry stays of up to 15 days, until June 30, 2018. postal address, enabling According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, more than five million the cruise company to people visited the country in the first five months of 2017, representing a 26.8% issue them with a Member increase on last year’s figures. ID, which agents can enter With daily flights to either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Airlines offers non-stop flights with the passenger to Vietnam from the UK. Flights are operated by the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner - offering information on future Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class from Heathrow T4 - and have been scheduled bookings. to offer overnight journeys in both directions with convenient onward connections. Return fares For more information call from Heathrow to Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City currently start from £462 per person, including taxes. 020-8326 5620 or go to For further information visit vietnamairlines.com pandaw.com
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eventbulletin TRAVEL BULLETIN welcomed Edinburgh agents at our Far East showcase, which was held at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel last week. Tourist boards, luxury resorts, operators and airlines were all on hand to chat with agents in a night of networking, mixed with fine wine, exotic dishes and prizes!
LJR LUXURY…Sue Wright (far right) from the LJR Consultancy presents a selection of luxury hotel options which be found in Thailand and Vietnam to agents. DISCOVER JAPAN…Clive Buckingham (by banner) from JTB Europe offers an expert insight to Japan to: (anti-clockwise) Lynne Taljaard and Wendy Ross from Thomas Cook; Andy Gilhooly from Travel Councillors; Sam Fleming, Thomas Cook; Travel Councillor Margo Mclaren; and Nicola Cowan from The Cruise Specialists. #TBSHOWCASES
ADVENTURE BOUND…Sarah Johnson (left) from STA wins a £500 voucher to be put toward the adventure of her choice, presented by Kerry Anne Naughton of G Adventures.
CHEERS…Paula Ryan Stokes (left) of PRS Independent Travel Experts chats with Paula McEvoy and Harry Dulger of Queensferry Travel.
CHEEKY CHARLIES…It’s a warm welcome to, from the left: Robin Innes, Louise Davidson, Julie Reid and Fiona Liddell, all CHAMPAGNE WIN…Anthony Vale from Movenpick Hotels and Resorts from Charlie Reid Travel. presents a bottle of Champagne to Lynne Taljaard of Thomas Cook.
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LUX LEARNING…Agents get to find out more about LUX Resorts & Hotels with a special presentation introduced by Travel Bulletin’s Matt Gill.
LUCKY LAWRENCE…Lawrence Jolly (left) from Flight Centre was the winner of a £50 shopping voucher and a Finnair model airplane, presented by the airline’s Marcio Kugelmeier.
PHILIPPINES PRIZE…From the left, Angelito P. Mendoza from the Philippines Department of Tourism presents Travel Counsellor Muriel Morgan and Faisal Sheikh of iTravel4U each with a prized bottle of Don TRAVEL DUO…Picking up a goodie bag are Brooke Martin (left) and Papa Rum, joined by the tourism board’s Marjorie V. Mohammad. Catherine Lorne from The Travel Company. STA AGENTS…Jenna Donaldson (by banner) from Qatar Airways presents WELCOME RECEPTION…Catching up over drinks at the welcome to: (anti-clockwise) Luce Brophy, Sarah Johnson, Peta Evans, Alison reception are, from the left: Steven McLean and Harriett Holdworth Woods, Kristie Lane and Anne Marie Scammell, all from STA Travel. from Flight Centre; Alistair Stuart from The Travel Service; G Adventures’ Kerry Anne Naughton; and Lawrence Jolly, Flight Centre.
Want to get in on the #TBSHOWCASES action? Join in the fun at our Cruise Showcase in Norwich on September 20. Reserve your place now by emailing [email protected]
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fareast InsideJapan creates series of fully accessible travel itineraries INSIDEJAPAN HAS launched the first in a new series of excluding flights. The trip includes breakfast ‘accessible’ itineraries designed to open up Japan and its accommodation; private transfers; guiding in wheelchair culture as a wheelchair-friendly destination. accessible vehicles in Kyoto, Mt. Fuji and Nara; all Consulting with partners on the ground, such as transport between destinations in Japan; pocket Wi-Fi; accessible Japan blogger, Josh Grisdale and Hideto Kijima and a number of other experiences. of the Japan Accessible Tourism organisation, the operator Ruth Hubbard, product manager for the operator, said: has created its first fully accessible Golden Route trip, “Our mission is to introduce this amazing country and its giving wheelchair travellers the chance to sample Japan wonderful culture to the West. Through working with our and its culture without barriers. accessible experts and with the new ‘Wheelchair Accessible The ten-night ‘Wheelchair Accessible Golden Route’ Golden Route’ as a great example of what we can do, we costs from £3,370 per person based on two sharing, are now better placed than anyone to do that.”
Turquoise Holidays partners with Thailand to promote eco-holidays THE TURQUOISE Holiday charity, an NGO which strives to “Thailand is the ultimate family Company, in partnership with the conserve and protect the holiday destination - an exotic Tourism Authority of Thailand, has threatened population of playground for active nature-loving penned ‘The Pocket Elephant’, a Asian Elephants. families looking for more than just children’s story designed as part The brand aims to grow its a fly-and-flop beach holiday. of a campaign to promote the overall visitors to Thailand by 10% “Our itineraries are 100% tailor destination to the family market. on the back of the campaign, with made and with direct flights from Available to order directly a revenue target of more than London leaving daily, our team is through the operator, the book £2million for departures by the adept at arranging holidays to fit tells the story of anxious end of this year. around different school holidays, schoolboy Max and Tug the baby The luxury family market was the work schedules, and everything elephant as they adventure across fastest growing market for the else mums and dads have to Thailand. The company hopes that company last year and continues to contend with these days. Our its campaign will educate agents be the major focus of its marketing partnership with The Elephant and travellers about the Asian for Thailand. It currently makes up Family is one which we are very elephant population in Thailand approximately 30% of the excited to start and hope that we including the sensitive subject of company’s overall mix of 3,000 can contribute towards them conservation. A percentage of the visitors per annum, with an average continuing their amazing work revenue generated from bookings spend of £13,000 per family. in Thailand.” made through the campaign will James Bell, managing director Visit turquoiseholidays.co.uk or call be donated to the Elephant Family of the holiday company, said: 01494-678400.
Philippine Airlines reconfigures A330s with new cabin product HAVING CONVERTED the layout of eight A330-300 aircraft, Philippine Airlines has introduced a new cabin product on nine of its international destinations. The improvement comes ahead of the launch of a Boeing 777-300ER on the London - Manila route, which will also offer an enriched in-flight experience across the airline’s Business and Economy classes. David Cochrane, UK & Ireland country manager for the airline, said: “As we look forward to upgrading our aircraft on the London – Manila route from December, we are thrilled to have a vastly enhanced cabin product operating on our ‘beyond’ destinations. This means that within this year, our guests flying from London and connecting via Manila will have a completely enhanced experience from takeoff to touchdown on our key routes.” The Thompson Vantage XL brand was selected for the UPCOMING FOR August 10-13 in Macao is the Wushu Masters airline’s 18 Business Class seats with full-flat recline and Challenge, an event dedicated to traditional Chinese martial arts and Pneumatic Comfort System (PCS), which allows the considered part of the traditional cultural heritage of China. A variety passenger to adjust seat firmness according to preference, of activities, from traditional wushu performances and training courses, to competitions, will take place during the four-day sport complimented with a massage function. The Economy extravaganza – all of them free of charge – and attended by wushu Zodiac brand was chosen for the 267 Economy seats. heroes from all over the world. Visit macaowushumc.com for details. Visit philippineairlines.com for more details.
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Hong Kong Tourism Board launches Specialist Club for travel agents IN RECOGNITION of the support received from trade partners in promoting Hong Kong over the years, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has launched the Hong Kong Specialist Club. The new loyalty programme provides members with a range of exclusive benefits including special trade offers on the destination’s latest products and offerings, and use of the Hong Kong Specialist logo. For agents to become a member of the new club, they need to complete three modules of the specialist programme. All members will receive a complimentary welcome pack, which includes a variety of items to allow them to discover the region including: tickets for the Hong Kong TramOramic Tour; tickets for a Dukling Harbour Cruise; a choice of Peak Tram Sky Pass or Admission to Sky100 Observation Deck; a tourist sim card with five-day usage; and an MTR Tourist one-day pass. If the three modules are completed by August 31, members will also be in with the chance of winning a place on a Hong Kong trip taking place later this year. Those who complete one module of the specialist programme by this date will also receive some HKTB goodies, while those completing two modules by the deadline will be in with the chance of winning Love2Shop vouchers. Dawn Page, the tourism board’s director for UK and Northern Europe, said: “At HKTB we always encourage agents to travel to Hong Kong themselves in order to experience the rich culture and cosmopolitan lifestyle that the city has to offer. The new Hong Kong Specialist Club is designed to reward those who have completed the training programme and to equip them with the necessary knowledge to help them sell Hong Kong effectively.” To register for the programme visit specialisthk.com/uk S07 TB 1407 2017 Far East_Layout 1 12/07/2017 11:33 Page 26
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Travel Bulletin is published by ONYX HOSPITALITY Group has announced plans to build a new OZO hotel in Pattaya, Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd Thailand, as well as redeveloping the existing Amari Pattaya and building an all-suites University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, Amari wing. The new developments mean that upon completion in early 2019, the North London, SW1W 0EX Pattaya site will comprise three hotels. The new 406-room hotel will be built adjacent to Tel: 020-7834 6661 the existing Ocean Tower of Amari Pattaya. Visit onyx-hospitality.com Printed by: Buxton Press Subscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseas ISSN: 0956-2419 puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. HOLIDAY INN, 6. CARACAS, 7. DERWENT, 9. RMI, 10. ALE, 11. TUNISIA, 12. CONTIKI, 13. CASABLANCA. @TravelBulletin Down: 1. HUW EDWARDS, 2. LUCERNE, 3. YUCATAN, 4. NAS, 5. ADDIS ABABA, 8. ESTONIA, 9. RUSSIAN, 12. CSA. Highlighted Word: LUSAKA TravelBulletin Where Am I?: Devil’s Tower, Wyoming, US.
We asked our staff the following question this week: What was the highlight of your weekend?
Jeanette Ratcliffe Matthew Weinreb Publisher Sales Executive [email protected] [email protected] Dinner on the river with some lovely friends. Having friends over.
Lauretta Wright Kathryn Frost Editor Sales Executive [email protected] [email protected] A picnic at Riverside Country Park in Gillingham.
Adam Potter Oliver Barton Editorial Assistant Events & Sales Administrator [email protected] [email protected] Day trip to chez Paris. The lie-in!
Paul Scudamore Nicky Valsamakis Contributing Editor Design Team Leader Sunny Sunday so hood down on '73 MGB and drive [email protected] around country lanes of Kent for pub lunch. Bliss. Watching Love Island.
Simon Eddolls Lucia Mathurin Sales Director Design Apprentice [email protected] [email protected] A Wimbledon double? Waking up without the sound of my alarm
Tim Podger Nelly Mendes Account Manager - Far East Production [email protected] [email protected] Lots of shopping & going to a food show.
Bill Coad Account Manager HAPPY BIRTHDAY! [email protected] Miriam Brtkova Designer [email protected] Matt Gill Senior Account Manager Miri regularly tops our office quote board thanks to her [email protected] comments, both sweet and hilarious! With her bright pink her you know she’s a creative and the life of the party! Strolling down the Putney Riviera Rocking out at the Psychobilly festival
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Celebrating 21 Years
Travel Bulletin Star Awards 2017 finalists revealed...
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Tickets for the Travel Bulletin Star Awards Gala Dinner on 4th September at London’s 5* Langham Hotel are selling fast! Email [email protected] to confirm your place now.
www.travelbulletin.co.uk/starawards/finalists #TBStarAwards
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