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July 3 2020 | ISSUE NO 3,151 | travelbulletin.co.uk Giving agents the edge

AGENT INSIGHT AGENT BULLETIN PUZZLE BULLETIN SPAIN & ISLANDS Andy la Gette on “the new Online training and incentives for Win a £50 M&S voucher in our Spain reopens for late normal” for travel motivated agents Su Doku competition summer 2020 season

SHORT BREAKS The revival of the post-lockdown staycation Cover pic : Adobe Stock S01 TB 0307 2020 Start_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:10 Page 2 S01 TB 0307 2020 Start_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:10 Page 3

JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 3 THIS WEEK RETURN TO THE ROAD 04 Two post-COVID-19 trends – staycations and road trips – can NEWS represent opportunities for travel agents who are prepared to get Updates from across the industry in the UK and further afield creative when they sell holidays.

05 AGENT INSIGHT Andy from Travel Counsellors on the new balancing act for agents

07 Road trips can be sold as COVID-19-safe way for cautious clients to travel. AGENT BULLETIN Great incentives and online THE TWIN trends of further 7% are keen to take collection; and all cars to be training opportunities staycations and road trips, a their car across the Channel. cleaned with a focus on result of more cautious To help reassure travellers high-frequency touch points travellers in a post-pandemic seeking to hire a car, the such as keys, steering world, do not need to spell World Travel and Tourism wheels, gear sticks, cup the end of opportunities for Council (WTTC) released holders and seat belts. travel agents. Indeed, by guidelines to enable rental “Worldwide attractions, car 08 booking hire cars or businesses to operate safely. hire and short-term rentals, campervans via trade- The recommendations all represent key PUZZLE BULLETIN Win with Su Doku and see if you friendly rental companies, include: Pre-arrival health components of many family know the Where Am I? location agents could find a new way declarations via email; holidays, so it’s vital we to appeal to clients who are Enhance cleaning to all establish measures which still nervous about flying or offices, especially high- allow safe travels to take using public transport. frequency touch points; place for holidaymakers and A RAC Breakdown survey Kerbside pick-up and drop travellers,” said Gloria found that 68% of off; Moving to a fully digital Guevara, WTTC president & respondents who have process including payments CEO. “Consumer confidence 09 cancelled, or expect to and limit physical interaction is crucial to create a climate SHORT BREAKS cancel, their holidays still with staff; Temperature in which travel and tourism The staycation market is set to want to have a break – of checks, if recommended by can resume.” boom for those seeking mini breaks these, a staycation in the UK legislation, and sanitation by car is favoured by 59%, stations for customers; Limit For more information on with 13% holding out for a the number of people staycations, turn to our Short trip abroad by plane. A allowed per vehicle Breaks feature on page 9. 13 SPAIN & ISLANDS Published by : Printed by: Buxton Press @TravelBulletin Summer 2020 starts late for Spain Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd Subscriptions are £125 p.a.  020 7834 6661 @TravelBulletin but tourism companies are hopeful University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor £195 overseas Place London, SW1W 0EX ISSN: 0956-2419 www.travelbulletin.co.uk Travel_Bulletin S01 TB 0307 2020 Start_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:10 Page 4

4 NEWS BULLETIN JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk

This is in-tents – rise in camping is tipped for the UK Agents take ACCORDING TO the booking G Adventures Inca platform Pitchup.com, it Trail steps challenge recorded the highest number of bookings in a day when AGENTS FROM across the UK more than 8,200 British and Ireland took the Inca Trail holidaymakers booked Steps Challenge with G accommodations within Adventures. Each agent was 24 hours of Boris Johnson tasked with clocking up the announcing an easing of 55,000 steps it takes to hike some of the lockdown the Inca Trail. More than 140 restrictions. agents did the challenge solo Of all the places searched or with a team and collectively by the British travellers, the tracked more than 5 million top 50 destinations were steps in four days. within the UK and more than Designed to educate agents 98% of bookings were for and cater to traveller demand holidays in the UK. see a longer season this year, scheme, which Pitchup.com for Peru, the challenge saw Last year Pitchup sent as half-term holidaymakers is developing with Visit agents receive daily videos, almost 800,000 UK may look closer to home. Britain, will provide guidance training, maps and collateral to holidaymakers on a The current health and on cleaning, guest capacity increase their knowledge of the staycation in July and safety measures have led to and social distancing for trek. The percentage of agents August, while this year, more the rise in demand for campsite businesses. These taking part who stated they than 2,903 bookings relating secluded destinations, such businesses will need time to were ‘extremely’ or ‘very to 8,291 holidaymakers, have as the Scottish highlands, adapt and train staff so they confident’ in selling the Inca been registered in England West Devon and remote can reopen safely. Trail increased from 20% to over a day. It is likely that parts of the Suffolk coast. 87% over the week. camping and caravanning will The VisitBritain kitemark Report by Vinita Tiwari

Haven and Warner make plans to reopen

TWO OF Bourne Leisure Group’s brands are Haven Hideaway products from July 6 in planning to reopen. England, which is the accommodation-only Warner Leisure Hotels will open all proposition. Haven Hideaway offers caravan properties in England from July 27, in line accommodation with facilities such as with the specified guidelines. There is still takeaway food options so that guests can “The Inca Trail is one of G some guidance required from the Welsh head to the coast and enjoy the beach under Adventures’ most sought-after government on the opening of the socially distanced circumstances. trips, and we designed this Bodelwyddan Castle property. The July 27 For guests who were due to arrive at challenge to be a fun way for date will give staff at the Warner hotels time Haven’s Welsh or Scottish parks in early July our agents to learn more about to ensure food supplies are restocked and the following options will be available – either the trek,” said Stu Darnley, furniture is arranged for social distancing. rebooking for a later date in 2020 or 2021, or national sales manager for Haven will go ahead with the reopening of a full refund. G Adventures.

TTC brands get in early with 2021 holidays for sale IN RESPONSE to travel agent demand for 2021 holidays, TTC’s leading guided holiday brands, Trafalgar, Costsaver, Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold, have released a selection of their most popular 2021 Europe & Britain departures for sale. This is the first time the brands have released holidays for the following year so far in advance, giving agents the opportunity to book 2021 holidays now. Past guests can save an extra 5% on certain trips. For more information agents can visit www.trafalgar.com, www.costsavertour.com, www.insightvacations.com and www.luxurygold.com, or contact their local sales manager. S02 TB 0307 2020 News_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:16 Page 5

JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 5

AGENT INSIGHT

MADEIRA MAGIC... Madeira, along with nearby Porto Santo, is open to international travellers. The two islands have been commended for their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic with just 92 reported cases and no ANDY LA GETTE deaths. All tourists must present a negative test within 72 hours prior TRAVEL COUNSELLORS to departure or be tested upon arrival. Tests on arrival are covered by the Madeira government, along with care, meals or accommodation. COMING OUT the other side of the pandemic is going to prove as complex and demanding as the way into it. Eurostar offers flexibility as It is hard to navigate and interpret the rules and regulations. We have had a challenging time, and need rail travel gets back on track to get back to earning a living. But we must be EUROSTAR IS offering travellers more flexibility on their sensitive to the customers who are torn between the bookings, with all fares now available to exchange with no fee, desire to get away and the need to stay safe. up to 14 days before departure. The new flexible fares will start How and what should we promote in the coming at £39 each way and apply to all bookings made from July 1 weeks and months? Should we focus on markets until December 31. They are valid for any dates of travel closer to home or indeed at home? The lifting of FCO available at the time of purchase. The increased flexibility travel advisories for travel out of the UK, combined comes in addition to options for those with existing bookings with the reciprocal quarantine-free arrangements with who may want to change their travel plans. European nations, gives us the short-term answer. Eurostar will reinstate its service direct from London to UK cottage companies and Eurostar were among Rotterdam and Amsterdam from July 9. The route will restart the flight-free options to report an explosion in demand with one train a day departing London St Pancras at 11:04am, at the first sign of loosened shackles. Flying has extra arriving in Amsterdam Central at 16:11pm. Fares are available uncertainty for a skittish public, but there’s a palpable from £40 one way. The return journey continues to be a buzz suggesting that a gently increasing flow of connecting service through Brussels, where passport controls enquiries for Mediterranean sun will become a flood. and security screening are carried out. Time will tell if we’re doing too much too soon, but it is probable a restless public will submit to holiday urges. Pandora’s Box is opening, and a surge of bookings to short-haul favourites seems inevitable. So what of the rest of the world? We need to see how summer pans out, to understand the “new normal” with socially distanced resorts. Is it still good value? Will people endure masks, early check-ins and limited dining – or will just getting away be enough? We simply do not know. Travel restrictions need to be lifted before we can do anything – and as the pandemic moves into South and Central America, Asia and Africa, we must respectfully let those countries fight their fight before we visit. When the time is right, they will need tourism, but we can’t go too soon. It is a Disneyland Paris will be more accessible by rail from August 2. tough balancing act. For now, we can make tentative plans with flexible policies, holding refundable options Families planning trips to Disneyland Paris over the summer for 2021 that hopefully become viable in time. will soon be able to take advantage of Eurostar’s direct service The future is uncertain, and we’re adapting our from London to Marne-la-Vallée, on the doorstep of the strategies, but as people turn to us, we need to show Disneyland Park, in just over two-and-a-half hours. The route sensible, justifiable optimism and confidence that small will restart from August 2 with fares from £39. step by small step, tourism is on its way back. S02 TB 0307 2020 News_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:16 Page 6

6 NEWS BULLETIN JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Airline update: Upgraded safety and more routes RARE India invites MORE AIRLINES are seeking agent partners to to return to pre-lockdown sell eco-luxury trips schedules, while upgrading their cleaning and RARE INDIA, a collection of disinfection procedures. sustainable luxury boutique Korean Air has upgraded hotels, palace stays, wildlife its sanitation protocols; lodges, homestays and retreats carries out disinfection more in India and the subcontinent, often than the legal has launched an initiative to requirements; checks the work with agents. RARE Travel temperature of all Agency Network (RATAN) is passengers before boarding; directed towards inviting requires all crew and Korean Air chairman Walter Cho joins the disinfection team. partnerships from travel agents passengers to wear masks to promote conscious luxury on board; maintains a London City Airport and Emirates continues to travel. Under RATAN, RARE continuous cabin airflow Schiphol from July 13. The reopen routes apace, India is inviting travel agencies from outside the plane; and Dutch airline has been restarting flights to Amman that believe in responsible has introduced a back-to- adapting its network and from July 5, Osaka from July tourism to be a part of the front zone boarding system flight schedule in line with 7, Narita from July 8, Athens, network. Agency partners will in which passengers seated travel restrictions and Larnaca, Rome and Glasgow have preferred access to the at the back are boarded first demand since the COVID-19 from July 15, and Malé from RARE India Community, RARE to minimise interaction outbreak. Over summer, July 16. Emirates will be India events, fam trips and between passengers. passengers will be able to flying to 52 cities by mid- knowledge sessions. KLM, meanwhile, is set to connect to more than 100 July, although flights to resume operations between destinations via Schiphol. Pakistan remain suspended. www.rareindia.com S02 TB 0307 2020 News_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:16 Page 7

JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk AGENT BULLETIN 7

AGENT INCENTIVES

AGENTS who complete all five modules of ‘Arizona from A-Z’, which is run by the Arizona Office of Tourism, will be entered into the prize draw to win one of nine bottles of wine from Dos Cabezas WineWorks, which is located in the US state. The winery features in the training modules. For more information and to take the course, log on to www.arizonafromatoz.co.uk/win

CRYSTAL RIVER Cruises is extending the Advance Purchase Savings programme to its travel partners around the world. Travel agents will receive a $250 gift card for each booking made on the cruise operator’s programme up until December 31, 2020. For more information about the offers on the Advance Purchase Savings programme and to make reservations call 020 7399 7604 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk

SHEENA SUMNER, MD of Wonderluxe Travel and a member US-BASED luxury tour operator Culture Holidays is offering of Protected Trust Services, has won the award for Best travel agents around the world reward points for fam trips Bespoke Luxury Travel Agency in The Midlands, in the when they make bookings. Agents who register will 2020 UK Enterprise Awards. automatically be enrolled in the CultureAdvantage Programme which allows agents to collect reward points, starting with 500 points on registration. To register and find out more, go to www.cultureholidays.com/agent- registration-form.html AGENT TRAINING Light Blue Travel, which represents Nicko Cruises in the ● ALL FIVE modules of the Queensland training programme UK for trade sales, is offering travel agents up to are now available on Travel Bulletin’s TravelGym portal. As 12% commission on river cruise bookings. Managing well as learning about the variety of holidays available in director Rupert Thomson said of river cruises, “Smaller Australia’s Sunshine State, including beaches, islands, vessels with fewer passengers on board and never far rainforests and the city of Brisbane, there are opportunities from dry land are some of the post COVID-19 advantages.” for agents to win prizes of John Lewis/Waitrose gift cards For more information on the cruises, go to as they learn. To find out more and undertake the training www.lightbluetravel.co.uk modules, go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/travelgym

● DESTINATION CANADA is launching a new Canada Specialist training portal. Pulling together the training schemes of commercial, provincial, city and territory partners, agents can now go to one website to find these Canada training programmes in one hub: www.canadaspecialist.co.uk. Initially, agents will find WEBINARS training programmes from Air Canada, Rocky Mountaineer, Vancouver, Montreal, Ontario and Alberta. The site also has links to virtual Canada, so agents can experience attractions, landmarks and festivals online, plus videos.

● AGENTS CAN win a five-star holiday to Abu Dhabu if they complete the online training course to become an Abu Watch the first in a series of Dhabi specialist. The programme is designed to provide themed webinars launched by agents with the knowledge and resources required to sell Travel Bulletin this week. more holidays to UAE capital. As well as being in with a chance to win a holiday, there are 100 £50 Love2Shop View the on demand version of our vouchers to be won by graduates of the programme. Go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/travelgym to take the course. Far East webcast featuring Amazing Thailand, ● THE SRI Lanka High Commission is conducting a series of the Japan National Tourism Organization webinars for Sri Lanka Wellness Week, as the Indian Ocean and Visit Fiji. destination reopens for tourism. On July 7 at 10:30am BST, the topic will be “How can we position Sri Lanka as the www.travelbulletin.co.uk/webinar-video next global wellness destination?” and on July 10, at the same time, the topic will be“Beyond COVID-19: Creating an action plan”. More information about the webinars can be found at www.slwta.com/wellnessweek/ or www.srilankabusiness.com/announcements/#sri-lankas- wellness-sector-three-part-webinar-series S02 TB 0307 2020 News_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:16 Page 8

8 PUZZLE BULLETIN JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Win a £50 M&S voucher in the Su Doku prize puzzle A

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 B the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to: [email protected] C Closing date for entries is Thursday, July 16th. Solution and new puzzle will appear in our next issue. SUDOKU The winner for June 19th is Stuart Pritchard from Sterling Travel Management. D June 19th Solution: A=2 B=4 C=3 D=8

WHERE AM I?

This port city was first settled by a Celtic tribe around 567 BC and, in the 18th century, it was rebuilt after centuries of occupation and conflict. It is close to the Atlantic coast and is very well-known for its nearby wine region.

Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares. Across Down 1. Ship operated by Cruise & Maritime 1. Actor who plays Inspector George Voyages, sounds like an Italian Gently and Judge John Deed (6,4) explorer (5,4) 2. Siberian city (4) 5. Famous luxury Singapore hotel (7) 3. Popular Florida destination (7) 7. London City airport code (3) 4. Musical based on the play 8. Capital of Fiji (4) Pygmalion (2,4,4) 9. Empire that built Machu Picchu (4) 6. Dating reality show ___ Island (4) 11. One of the Channel Isles (4) 8. Aegina is part of this island group (7) 12. Tremezzo is a popular resort on this 10. German city (4) lake (4) 13. Famously shaped cricket ground in 14. Avignon Provence airport code (3) South London (4) 15. Recently named as Britain's favourite flavour of ice cream (7)

16. Cruise company with HQ in Miami (9)

CROSSWORD

Mystery Word: OSTEND Where am I? - Bordeaux, France Bordeaux, - I? am Where OSTEND Word: Mystery

OVAL. 13. BONN, 10. SARONIC, 8. LOVE, 6. LADY, FAIR MY 4. ORLANDO, 3. OMSK, 2. SHAW, MARTIN 1. Down:

CELEBRITY. 16. VANILLA, 15. AVN, 14. COMO, 12. SARK, 11. INCA, 9. SUVA, 8. LCY, 7. RAFFLES, 5. POLO, MARCO 1. Across:

Solution: S03 TB 0307 2020 Short Breaks_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:39 Page 9

SHORT BREAKS

SHORT AND SWEET While there has been an influx of holiday bookings as international travel restrictions are lifted, the short break market has potential, especially within the UK. Georgia Lewis reports.

THE UK is coming out of following Prime Minister next three months, the in the hours after Boris lockdown and while there Boris Johnson’s highest proportion since the Johnson’s announcement. are encourgaging reports of announcement of this lockdown started in March. Year-on-year sales were up customers keen to book month’s reopening of the In contrast, survey 270% for Hoseasons by the longer holidays, for many hospitality sector indicate respondents were more end of the day. people, the short break is there is strong interest in cautious about overseas “We were expecting tempting, particularly as a taking UK-based breaks. travel with about 20% of greater levels of interest, cautious re-entry into BVA BDRC, a consumer respondents contemplating but the surge in demand travelling after a long insights agency, released an international holiday was still surprising and we period of limited activity. survey results which found before the end of the year. certainly hadn’t expected a For many, a staycation that the momentum for Holiday rental record day,” said Simon will be their first foray into domestic travel is building marketplace Snaptrip, Altham, Chief Commercial post-lockdown travel, in the wake of the which aggregates more Officer of Awaze UK, the especially if they are still government announcement. than 35 UK suppliers, parent company of not confident about air The post-announcement experienced a 172% Hoseasons. “Over the last travel. Journeys to areas survey found a growing increase in bookings (50% few weeks we’ve seen where social distancing is number of people planning of these were for this volumes of enquiries and easier, such as the Scottish to take a trip in the UK in the month) and a total increase bookings increase on a highlands, Snowdonia and next three months, of 400% in revenue daily basis, as people begin the Yorkshire Dales, corresponding with a compared to June last year to become more confident reachable by car or train, reopening of British tourist on the day after Mr about booking a UK may be preferable for many attractions. The survey Johnson’s announcement. holiday. Government to travelling by plane in the found that 27% of Luxury lodge specialist confirmation seems to have coming months. respondents plan to visit a Hoseasons recorded one just given people an extra Web traffic statistics UK-based attraction in the booking every 11 seconds level of certainty.” S03 TB 0307 2020 Short Breaks_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:39 Page 10

10 SHORT BREAKS JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Visit England keen ROYAL APPROVAL to promote COVID- safe short breaks is welcoming visitors on short breaks in AS THE tourism industry reopens upgraded accommodation facilities after reopening the grounds in England, Visit England has and gardens last month. partnered with national tourist organisations to launch industry standards for the whole UK. The ‘We’re Good To Go’ industry standard and supporting mark means businesses can demonstrate that they are adhering to government and public health guidance, have carried out a COVID-19 risk assessment and have the required processes in place. An alert system has been set up so that businesses are notified of any changes to the official guidance. A call-handling service provides support, and assessors will carry out random spot-checks to WARWICK CASTLE is welcoming its first site throughout lockdown, cared for by ensure adherence. overnight guests since lockdown this month. falconers who have been flying them daily. The scheme has been This follows on from a reopening of the A number of processes have been developed with Tourism Northern castle’s grounds and gardens on June 6. implemented to ensure visitor safety including: Ireland, VisitScotland and Visit On July 4, the on-site accommodation at enhanced cleaning of all areas including Wales, with input from more than Knight’s Village will reopen. The toilets and seating, introduction of one-way 40 industry bodies including accommodation comprises overnight stays in systems supported by clear wayfinding, social UKHospitality, the Association of woodland lodges with medieval styling. distancing markers and sanitiser stations; Lodges sleep between five and seven people, entry will be dependent on advance online all with self-contained bathrooms and toilets. booking only, with availability subject to new As well as the grounds and gardens, daily maximum capacities to ensure visitors will be able to go inside the castle to allowance for social distancing; temperature view such attractions as the armoury spot-checks may be carried out; guests are collection in the Great Hall, as well as encouraged to bring face coverings with them climbing the towers and ramparts for views for use if necessary; contactless payment for Leading Visitor Attractions, the across the grounds and beyond. food and drink payment; toilets will be British Holiday & Home Parks Character performers will return to available to guests on a one-in-one-out basis. Association, the British Beer entertain visitors, including knights and All tickets and stays must be booked in and Pub Association and the princesses, as well as the Birds of Prey shows advance online at www.warwick-castle.com National Caravan Council, as in The Falconer’s Quest. The collection of and new daily capacity limits have been put in well as destination management more than 60 birds of prey have remained on place to ensure social distancing. organisations.

A ferry good way to stay safe on a short break DISCOVER FERRIES has created a list of destinations to promote the benefits of ferry travel in the age of social distancing and encourage confident booking over the summer months. The destinations are ideal for short breaks and include the Scilly Isles, where travellers can take the Scillonian ferry to enjoy puffin-spotting. Stargazing clients might be keen on some of the remote parts of the British Isles, where clear night skies are perfect for perusing the constellations. Recommended destinations include the Isle of Wight, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. Wightlink, Red Funnel and Hovertravel offer services to the Isle of Wight; Isle of Man Steam Packet Company runs routes from Heysham, , Belfast and Dublin to Douglas; and Condor Ferries sails to Jersey and Guernsey. S03 TB 0307 2020 Short Breaks_Layout 1 02/07/2020 05:25 Page 11

JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk SHORT BREAKS 11

Agent commission for electric adventures on wheels

AGENTS CAN earn accommodation shared commission on Cycling for across two boutique hotels. Softies’ self-guided high-end Recommended routes cover e-bike trips through the UK Bourton-on-the-Water, with its and Europe. The company model village as well as has launched short break Burford and its plentiful itineraries for the UK in antique shops. Cycling on to Sussex and the Cotswolds. Cirencester allows for a trip to Harvey Downard, Cycling the Corinium museum, which for Softies’ head of cycling, documents the town’s Roman commented, “We’ve had heritage. Priced from £1,245 Cycling through the Cotswolds is made easy on an e-bike. brilliant feedback from per person for four nights, it customers who have enjoyed most beautiful regions on two saddle for a seat on the includes e-bike hire and our e-bike tours in France and wheels, without requiring too Bluebell Railway steam train accommodation on half- Italy, so now seemed the much physical exertion. before returning to the hotel board basis. perfect time to offer the same In Sussex, the Ockenden to dine in the award-winning experience in the UK. Many Manor tour runs for two or restaurant. Priced from £585 To find more about these and people have been taking a three nights, starting at the per person for two nights, other tours in the UK and closer look at the destinations Elizabethan country house including e-bike hire and Europe, go to www.cycling- on their doorstep over the which has been converted accommodation on half- for-softies.co.uk. Agents who past few months, and these into a hotel with spa. Guests board basis, midweek. would like to find out more tours offer an extension of can choose from routes that The Cotswolds In Comfort about earning commission that by providing the take in the scenic villages of E-bike Tour takes in many of can email opportunity and means to West Sussex and local the region’s highlights on a [email protected] discover some of the UK’s wineries, or swap your bike four-night short break with or call 020 3944 5216. S03 TB 0307 2020 Short Breaks_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:39 Page 12

12 SHORT BREAKS JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Blackpool is ready LAKESIDE LIFE for summer short The Swiss city of Geneva is being promoted as a destination break visitors where visitors can safely enjoy a range of experiences, including MANY OF ’s major wine tasting, art and wild swimming. attractions, hotels, restaurants and bars will be allowed to reopen on July 4. This follows on from Chillon Castle on the shores of Lake Geneva reopening on June 29. Among the attractions reopening are , part of Blackpool Tower, the Centre, , amusement centres and piers on the Golden Mile. The “Know Before You Go” guidance includes advice on safety measures taken by attractions, hotels, bars and restaurants, litter prevention and contactless payment. Cllr Gillian Campbell, Cabinet Member for Tourism & Culture on Blackpool Council, said that

GENEVA TOURISM is Geneva is welcoming back also offers sporting activities promoting the Swiss city as a the Sculpture Garden including sailing, canoeing, safe short break destination. biennale until September 10. paddleboarding and The Open Cellars Taking place in three open windsurfing at Tropical programme returns with green spaces (Parc des Corner. For a more sedate adjustments for preventing Eaux-Vives, Parc La Grange, experience, visitors can take the spread of coronavirus. and Quai Gustave-Ador), a dip at Geneva’s new public Geneva has the third largest the biennale will host 30 Eaux Vives beach. winegrowing region in large-format sculptures, Across all of Switzerland, Switzerland and the many created by young the government has during lockdown, businesses programme will run every artists. introduced the Clean & Safe have been preparing to reopen: Saturday until early Lake Geneva, one of the campaign to ensure high “We need to give our visitors September. The wineries largest lakes in Europe, is a stands of hygiene in hotels, the confidence to return, have increased opening prime attraction during the bars, cafes, restaurants and knowing that our priority is hours and are open to small summer, and now visitors tourist attractions. their health and safety.” groups for wine tasting. can try wild swimming at As well as the wineries, Bains des Paquis. The lake www.geneve.com www.visitblackpool.com

Roam around Rome on a luxury mini-break WITH ITALY again opening up for tourists, tourist businesses in Rome are hoping for an influx of short break visitors from the UK, as well as its European neighbours. Luxury hotels are popular for short Roman holidays and, with this in mind, the five-star Palazzo Naiadi, a Dedica Anthology property, has created a series of initiatives to allow guests to discover the secrets of the Italian capital within this new post-COVID-19 normality. These include: The Open Road to Rome, a golf cart tour for four people, showcasing the major sights of Rome; a three-hour tour of Rome’s most romantic sights, such as Villa Borghese and the Giardino degli Aranci sull'Aventino, and an “artist for a day” experience. www.dahotels.com/palazzo-naiadi-roma S04 TB 0307 2020 Spain & Islands_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:21 Page 13

SPAIN & ISLANDS

NO SIESTA FOR SPAIN After imposing a strict lockdown to deal with COVID-19, Spain is keen to reopen for business and tourism leaders are optimistic despite new safety protocols. Georgia Lewis reports.

SPAIN’S TOURISM boards enclosed spaces for public Canary islands, a track and under safe conditions as are optimistic about a use, when it is not possible trace app is being tested by from July 1, and it will do successful summer 2020, to maintain a social distance the Spanish government. this with its customary despite a later-than-usual of at least 1.5 metres. Mask The island’s popularity with warmth and hospitality. start to the season thanks to use is also mandatory on tourists was one of the Through this video, we want global travel restrictions. public transport, by air, sea reasons it was selected for to encourage you to plan “This is the most difficult and rail, and in private the pilot programme and, your holidays to our country situation the Spanish tourism vehicles if the occupants do with residents reportedly now, where you will be able sector has faced that anyone not live at the same address; keen to participate, to find a broad and diverse can remember,” said Jose as well as tourist expectations are high that tourism offer that will live up Luis Zoreda, vice-president accommodation, restaurants, this trial will prove successful to any expectations," of the Spanish tourism lobby shops and cultural, in monitoring the virus explained Isabel Oliver, state group Exceltur. entertainment, recreational across Spain, especially in secretary for tourism and Free mobility throughout and sports centres. areas that rely heavily on chair of Turespaña. the territory and travel The Spanish government international tourism. However, tourists seeking between provinces has been wants to ensure that crowds Turespaña, a body to party in Spain this allowed but since June 21, a are avoided in common attached to the Ministry of summer may have a series of new tourism areas, and guarantee that Industry, Trade and Tourism, difference experience to regulations has been put in customers and workers released a video on social previous years. The Balearic place for the whole country. maintain a minimum media as part of the islands have banned dancing These include the mandatory interpersonal distance of campaign 'Spain is waiting at clubs and beach bars. face masks for people over 1.5 metres. for you', to attract inbound Some superclubs are not six years of age on public On La Gomera, one of the tourists from July onwards. reopening this year because roads, outdoors and in "Spain is ready to receive they are only allowed to host foreign tourists up to 100 people outdoors – these clubs usually host thousands of people on a nightly basis. Small clubs are required to cover dance floors with tables and chairs. S04 TB 0307 2020 Spain & Islands_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:21 Page 14

14 SPAIN & ISLANDS JULY 3 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Rural escapes on offer in Murcia go beyond the hustle and bustle

SPAIN MAY be best known Cálida is home to paradors for beach holidays and city such as the inland Parador breaks, but the Murcia de Lorca (pictured), within region is keen to promote the Lorca Castle estate. an alternative type of As well as rural retreats, Spanish holiday – the Lorca features free relaxed luxury rural break. museums, squares, The Spanish government palaces, fine architecture, has announced that walking and cycling paradors can reopen, hotspots and activities such subject to strict safety as kayaking, scuba diving guidelines to prevent and and cliff jumping. control the spread of COVID-19. A parador is a For more information: type of luxury hotel – or a modern building with a architecture, with an aim of www.murciaturistica.es/en/ usually located in a panoramic view – usually protecting Spanish heritage home/ converted historic building, featuring impressive and culture. Murcia’s Costa

Where do you hope to take your next short break?

Jeanette Ratcliffe Matt Gill Publisher Senior Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] I'm going to Cornwall next week. Lake District this weekend.

Georgia Lewis Bill Coad Managing Editor - News Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] To the north-east of England to see friends and family. McDonalds!

Mariam Ahmad Sarah Terry Assistant Editor - News Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] Cornwall. Tuscany.

Hannah Carter Simon Eddolls Events Coordinator Sales Director [email protected] [email protected] I'm planning to go to Devon for a long weekend at the A pub in Buckinghamshire on cricket tour, if we're allowed... start of September.

Tim Podger Ashweenee Beerjeraz Account Manager - Far East Events Assistant [email protected] [email protected] Koh Samui. Lake District.

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SPAIN & ISLANDS

Two-pronged policy READY TO CHECK IN for Spanish tourism Hotels across Spain are opening as July heralds a delayed start to SPAIN’S SECRETARY of State for the summer season. With limited occupancy and safety protocols, Tourism and the Autonomous hotel companies are still looking forward to welcoming guests. Communities has agreed to submit plans for a sustainable reopening JULY WILL see hotels open of the country’s tourism industry across mainland Spain and following the COVID-19 pandemic. the islands. Lower occupancy The sustainability plans take and safety protocols will two different lines based on the change the experience, but requirements of different regions. the industry is optimistic. One plan is aimed at helping RIU Hotels is opening 15 Spain’s pioneering destinations, hotels by the first week of which have specific needs for July, across Madrid, renewal and repositioning in the Mallorca, Cadiz, Formentera, international tourism market. Málaga, Gran Canaria, The other plan will focus on Tenerife (pictured), destinations located in rural and Fuerteventura and Grand Palladium White Island Resort & Spa in Ibiza. inland areas. This plan aims to help Lanzarote. For all RIU these often lesser-visited areas properties, hotel occupancy Hotel Ibiza will also welcome Petri (Cadiz), Meliá Villaitana create appealing tourism products will be limited to 50% or clients from July 10. From (Alicante), Meliá Lebreros based on their unique selling 60%, unless the country’s July 8, Agroturismo Sa (Seville) and Meliá Atlanterra points. It is hoped that plans to legal limit is lower. Talaia, on Ibiza, will reopen. (Cadiz) in Andalusia, Hotel revive tourism in these areas will The Palladium Hotel Group Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife will Valencia Oceanic and TRYP help fight against depopulation. is reopening all Spanish reopen on July 30. Ciudad de Alicante in the Tourism Minister Isabel Oliver properties throughout July. On the mainland, Valencia region, and said, “The application of these Seven of its hotels in Ibiza Palladium Hotel Costa del the Tryp Santiago and Tryp sustainability plans will contribute (Grand Palladium Palace Ibiza Sol in Benalmádena, Málaga, Vigo in Galicia. to the recovery of the tourism Resort & Spa and Grand reopens on July 9. For July, the group will sector after the coronavirus Palladium White Island Meliá Hotels is reopening welcome guests back to all crisis and will allow it to Resort and Spa), Tenerife more than 60 Spanish hotels their properties across strengthen its competitiveness, and Málaga are open from by the end of July. June has Andalusia, the Valencia accelerating its transformation July 3. Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza already seen the group region, the Balearic Islands towards a model based on will reopen on July 10. Bless reopen Gran Meliá Sancti and the Canary Islands. sustainability and digitisation.” S04 TB 0307 2020 Spain & Islands_Layout 1 01/07/2020 17:22 Page 16