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May 10 2019 | ISSUE NO 2,107 | travelbulletin.co.uk Giving agents the edge
NEWS BULLETIN AGENT TRAINING BULLETIN BRIEFING LUXURY SHOWCASES Industry updates from the Online training for Western Global’s Cherie Richards on the Photo fun from our Southampton UK and beyond Australia and luxury cruising joys of working in travel & Northampton events
THEME PARKS &
ATTRACTIONS Selling sensational summer thrills Cover pic : © eranda S01 TB 1005 2019 Start_Layout 1 08/05/2019 12:22 Page 2 S01 TB 1005 2019 Start_Layout 1 08/05/2019 12:22 Page 3
MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 3 THIS WEEK BRITS ABROAD
03 NEWS A round-up of this week’s industry developments & announcements
09 AGENT BULLETIN Great new competitions & booking incentives
11 PUZZLE BULLETIN Play Su Doku for your chance to FROM THE get-go, Brexit has trips abroad, with 43% of book an all-inclusive win a £50 M&S voucher had an impact on travel prospective travellers holiday this year. agents and holidaymakers arguing uncertainties “While taking a holiday alike, casting doubt on how around the October 31 remains a clear priority for our departure from the deadline for Brexit has Brits, Brexit and economic European Union will affect made them more cautious uncertainties are bringing border control, driving about booking holidays. unwanted storm clouds over 12 permits, consumer rights, However, this does not the holiday market,” said medical care and even mean Brits will be putting Marloes Des Vries, travel BULLETIN BRIEFING Cherie Richards, from Global, doggy passports. their Euros away anytime analyst at Mintel. celebrates the joys of travel. However, it seems soon. In fact, the research “As a result, more everything is not as bad as it found 28% of travellers will consider seems on the British Isles, holidaymakers plan to take staycations and all-inclusive with 27% of holidaymakers more holidays of a holidays in 2019, while planning to spend more on minimum of four nights lower-cost destinations, holidays this year, a 5% over the next year, opting such as Turkey and Tunisia, increase from 2018’s for longer trips as opposed are likely to be the industry 14 findings, according to to long-weekend winners. That said, the research by Mintel. excursions overseas. Brexit delay could boost LUXURY SHOWCASE A glimpse into our events in The survey – which asked All-inclusive trips are set summer holiday bookings Northampton and Southampton the opinions of 2,000 people to be a hit among Brits, with among Brits, given that across Great Britain – found 30% claiming uncertainty consumers will be more Brexit has impacted how around exchange rates has reluctant to commit to trips holidaymakers plan their made them more likely to later in the year.” 17
THEME PARKS AND Published by : Printed by: Buxton Press @TravelBulletin ATTRACTIONS Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd Subscriptions are £125 p.a. 020 7834 6661 @TravelBulletin Universal Orlando puts a spell on University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor £195 overseas www.travelbulletin.co.uk wizarding fans. Place London, SW1W 0EX ISSN: 0956-2419 Travel_Bulletin S01 TB 1005 2019 Start_Layout 1 08/05/2019 16:19 Page 4
4 NEWS BULLETIN MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Cheesy pop at the boardwalk for Eurovision From the Cornish coast to Costa Rica FOLLOWING THE success of Netta Barzialai at last year’s ON A mission to promote event, Tel Aviv is set to host sustainable tourism and this year’s Eurovision Song conservation, Cornwall’s Eden Contest. Now, as the event Project has paired up with the draws nearer, the Israel Costa Rica Tourism Board to Tourism Board has lifted the organise a jungle themed lid on the festivities set to weekend, bringing the exotic take place citywide during charm of Central America to the Eurovision season. British seaside. On May 16, the Tel Aviv Taking place over the boardwalk will be weekend of May 18-19 the transformed into The event will host a range of Eurovision Village, better nature-based activities, The Tel Aviv Boardwalk will be transformed into The Eurovision Village. known as the official fan including a treasure trail and a zone for the ESC. Access to and cooking demonstrations Song Contest took place in volcano discovery workshop, as the village is free, allowing by some of the best Portugal, with Israel’s Netta well as music, dance music fanatics to see their restaurants across the Barzilai ranking first with performances and food tastings. favourite acts perform live region. This marks the perfect her song ‘Troy’ tallying a However, the real star of the ahead of the event, while opportunity for visitors to total of 529 votes, followed show will be an orchid exhibit in visitors are encouraged to indulge in the best of Israeli by Cyprus (436), Austria the garden’s Rainforest Biodome watch the main show on big gastronomy throughout the (342), Germany (340) and – the world’s biggest screens at the village. seven-day event, at the the Czech Republic (281). undercover rainforest – where In keeping with this year’s hands of some of Tel Aviv’s This marks the country’s more than 500 of the beautiful theme ‘Dare to Dream’, Tel most renowned chefs. fourth victory in the plants will be on display. Aviv White Night is set to “We are thrilled and very competition, previously take place on May 16, the excited to be welcoming the winning the competition in night of the second Semi- Eurovision stage back to 1978, 1979 and 1998; as Final. An annual all-night Israel for the third time,” said well as its first top celebration of Israeli culture, Sharon Bershadsky, director five placing in more than the event will span across the of the Israel Government a decade. city in the form of vibrant Tourist Office. This year’s festivities will exhibitions and events taking “Tel Aviv is the perfect be hosted by Israeli actor place at cultural centres, host with its vibrant and singer Kobi Mirami, with open spaces and beaches character and well-known Michael Rice set to represent David Harland CEO of Eden until the sun comes up. This party scene. Those visiting the United Kingdom and Project International said: “Costa is one of the biggest events Tel Aviv for this momentous Sarah McTernan Rica is a leader in eco-tourism of the year in Israel, and most event, will get to experience representing Ireland. and the global environmental events and performances are the city’s year-round hot The Eurovision song contest agenda. We are delighted to be open to the public. weather, amazing beaches, will take place on May 18. working with our Costa Rican The Tel Aviv Eat Festival is delicious food and of course To find out more visit friends both at the Eden Project set to take place between the best parties.” https://eurovision.tv/event/te and on site at the Matambú May 12-18, featuring tastings Last year’s Eurovision l-aviv-2019 Nature Reserve.”
Cambodia by bike with Bamboo Travel DETERMINED TO beat the exhausting heat of Southeast Asia, Bamboo Travel has introduced its first fleet of next-generation electric bikes in Cambodia. Through this initiative, the company hopes to encourage more clients to explore the Temples of Angkor without giving in to the sweltering Cambodian conditions. As well as your run-of-the-mill pedals, each dual-powered Giant E+1 bike features an electric motor which maintains speeds and helps on ascents, taking the hassle out of a steep incline and propelling holidaymakers to Olympic speeds without breaking a sweat. An e-bike tour of the Temples of Angkor can be accessed through Bamboo Travel’s 11-day ‘Highlights of Cambodia’ excursion, with prices starting at £2,295 per person. S02 TB 1005 2019 News 1_Layout 1 08/05/2019 16:22 Page 5
MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 5
Jet2 launches Izmir flights across UK airports Cayman on the up JET2 HAS marked the start STARTING OFF 2019 on a high of flights and holidays to note, the Cayman Islands have Turkey with its debut flight to recorded the highest number of Izmir, on the Aegean coast. stayover visitors for any first Customers travelling from quarter recorded. Manchester Airport The islands welcomed a total celebrated the inaugural of 145,804 visitors over the space flight with treats and of three months − a 8.67% more refreshments on board. One than the same quarter last year. passenger bagged Of these holidaymakers, 59,563 themselves a pair of return wave customers off from five more of its nine UK visited during the month of March, Jet2 flights tucked away in Manchester Airport on the bases, with flights departing standing strong as the best ever an envelope on their seat. inaugural flight,” said Steve from London Stansted, recorded month for stayover A stone’s throw away from Heapy, CEO of Jet2 and Glasgow, Newcastle, visitation and racking up roughly Dilek National Park, Izmir is Jet2holidays. Birmingham and Leeds KY$235 million in visitor spend. proving to be a popular “Izmir is shaping up to be an Bradford. This marks the A large contributor to this family-friendly resort, with incredibly popular destination beginning of Jet2’s summer increase in visitors is the travellers flocking to resorts for UK customers, and we are programme, with 59 introduction of the island’s in Kuşadasi, Cesme, Ozdere looking forward to a bright destinations on sale for Denver route, which brought in and Seferihisar on the west future in this great region.” holidaymakers hoping to 683 visitors during March. coast of Turkey. The company has also make the most of the warm Another major factor was “We were delighted to launched flights to Izmir from weather abroad. TripAdvisor’s 2019 Traveller’s Choice Awards, which named Cayman Airways the ‘Best Airline Bristol Airport celebrates customer service high in the Caribbean’, as well as a top ‘Specialty and Leisure Airline’ FOLLOWING AN investment of more than annual air journeys across the globe. within the north American region. £225 million in new infrastructure and facilities “We are delighted with this inundation of “The Cayman Islands should be since 2010, Bristol Airport has received its strong and positive feedback from our proud of its record-breaking best-ever feedback in terms of overall passengers, as well as to recieve recognition stayover performance in the first satisfaction, business passenger satisfaction for the continuing hard work by the teams in quarter of 2019,” said Moses and arrivals passport process in ACI’s Airport gaining this result,” said Tom McEwen, the Kirkconnell, deputy premier and Service Quality (ASQ) Survey in the UK. airport’s customer service delivery manager. minister of tourism. “As a The international survey, which measures ”We are not complacent and continue to Ministry and Department of passengers’ satisfaction while they are at the invest in the passenger experience and develop Tourism, we are committed to airport, ranked Bristol highly in terms of world leading facilities. Improving passenger developing innovative and business and executive lounges, as well as facilities is a key focus for us and this year authentic strategies for attracting for cleanliness of terminals and ambience. alone we are investing over £60 million; travellers from key source Airports taking part in ASQ’s survey handled these projects include a new car rental markets, such as the launch of a total of 7.7 billion passengers between facility, airline building and newly refurbished our USA focused ‘Dream in them, accounting for more than half of all special assistance area,” he continued. Cayman’ campaign.” S02 TB 1005 2019 News 1_Layout 1 08/05/2019 13:39 Page 6
6 NEWS BULLETIN MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Partners in Pride with AC Group and STA Travel A new Princess in
AC GROUP has paired up the British Isles with STA Travel to provide PRINCESS CRUISES has exclusive access to World announced the launch of a UK- Pride 2019 Pride Island based ship - Crown Princess. tickets – where all passes Spanning across 950 feet have already sold out. (roughly three football pitches), Through this partnership – the 3,080-guest vessel which is the first of its kind in features more than 1,500 cabins the UK market – travellers and four swimming pools; as well will gain access to the Pride as 19 decks, 18 restaurants, Island Festival taking place cafes and bars. on June 29-30 in New York, As of July 24, Crown Princess with this year will also become the first UK- commemorating 50 years based ship to host the since the Stonewall Uprising partnerships to provide met – an aspect which has award-winning Ocean Medallon in which 50 members of the greater access to attracted a growing number technology, alongside Regal LGBTQ community were international destinations of people from the LGBTQ Princess and Royal Princess. killed in a series of police and events while ensuring community to utilise Designed to improve guests’ riots in Greenwich Village. we are servicing our clients its services onboard experience the ten- Holidaymakers will have in the best possible way.” An estimated 150,000 pence-piece-sized technology has the chance to book a Likewise, Tim Fryer, marchers are set to hit the several handy features such as five-day package from STA country manager for STA streets of The Big Apple for opening doors for holidaymakers Travel, including four-star Travel in the UK and France, this year’s Pride March, as they approach and helping accommodation and said: “We are proud to be hosted by Whoopi Goldberg, with navigation on board. unlimited access to the the exclusive partner for this with acts including Cyndi Crown Princess will be sailing Festival, which features World Pride package. STA Lauper, Ciara and Todrick around the British Isles on a headliner Grace Jones, Travel is a keen supporter of Hall confirmed to perform. series of 12-night voyages. Teyana Taylor, Kim Petras, the LGBTQ community so Other events set to take Amara La Negra, Johnny we’re delighted to be able to place include OutCinema, a Dynell, Abel, Marabito and offer our customers the unique cinematic event Brazil’s most famous drag opportunity to enjoy this celebrating LGBTQ film; queen – Pabllo Vittar. amazing event.” CosPlay & Pride, as "Our LGBTQ division has STA Travel has taken organised by LGBTQ built a strong relationship several steps in order to nonprofit Geeks OUT; Savor with World Pride to secure strengthen its relationship Pride, a gastronomy the opportunity for British with the LGBTQ community, experience showcasing the travellers to commemorate including the appointment of best in New-York cuisine as such a massive milestone John Bridge as an LGBTQ cooked by LGBTQ chefs; a Departing August 17, she will sail in LGBTQ history,” said Rob specialist. human rights conference roundtrip from Southampton, Russell, joint CEO of tour The company has voiced and a rally in honour of calling at Guernsey, Cork, Dublin, operator AC Group. its dedication to ensuring the Stonewall. Belfast, Glasgow, Invergordon, “Our LGBTQ division is needs of all clients who For more information, visit Edinburgh and Paris; with prices growing by building true identify as LGBTQ are www.actours.co.uk starting from £1,099.
Back in action for the Marconfort Griego Hotel
AFTER MONTHS of refurbishment, Marconfort Hotels has re-opened the doors to its Costa del Sol-based resort – Marconfort Griego Hotel Torremolinos – featuring a revamped lobby, renovated bars and a multicoloured swimming pool. Fifteen minutes from Malaga Airport, the beachfront hotel boasts a wellness centre, relax zone, swimming pool, two bars, and kids’ clubs for children aged between 4-11 and 12-17. To celebrate the hotel’s return, guests were treated to a glamorous DJ party, dancers and a charity prize draw, as well as live music and a series of guided visits around the refurbished resort. S02 TB 1005 2019 News 1_Layout 1 08/05/2019 13:39 Page 7
MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 7
Amazing scenes from the Scenic Neptune submarine Eurowings and Ryanair add more SCENIC HAS revealed the first images of the interior of continental flights its submarine, Scenic EUROWINGS AND Ryanair have Neptune, which is announced new short-haul routes. attached to the Scenic Last week, Eurowings added to Eclipse ocean cruiser. its German internal routes by Custom-designed, built for adding a Berlin-Munich connection optimal sightseeing and to its schedule. The flights, capable of diving to a depth between Berlin-Tegel and Munich’s of up to 300m, the Franz-Josef-Strauß-Flughafen, manoeuvrability of Scenic take off four times a day on Neptune will provide cruisers weekdays and three times a day with an adventurous on weekends. From May 17, a fifth underwater experience it connection will be added to the glides through the ocean Friday timetable. Tickets start from environment. €34.99 one-way when booked Scenic Neptune will be online. The new Eurowings flights able to offer up to eight dives that can swivel 280 degrees sound system, for added complement the Lufthansa per day. The interior has to allow viewing from both underwater ambience. services on this route, adding up been designed to maximise sides of the submarine, and The first sailing of Scenic to more than 300 weekly flights legroom and headroom, with strong exterior lights to allow Eclipse will take place on between Berlin and Munich from seating for up to six guests, guests to take in the colours August 15, for an Iceland and the Lufthansa Group. plus pilot. The craft’s design and details of wrecks and Atlantic Canada voyage consists of a three-person other underwater sights. starting in Reykjavik and pod on the front and at the For comfort, the sub is finshing in Quebec. back of the sub. The seats equipped with a climate For more information, go to are mounted on a platform control system as well as a www.scenic.co.uk
UN promotes gastronomy tourism for sustainability
THE WORLD Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) growth and fight against depopulation. It is a hosted the third World Forum on means to include many layers of society in Gastronomy Tourism earlier this month in development. The broad spectrum of Meanwhile, Irish budget carrier the Spanish city of San Sebastián. Held gastronomy tourism makes it an ally for social Ryanair has launched a twice- every two years, the forum promotes the inclusion. It has a particular potential to weekly service from Budapest to exchange of ideas, experiences and best economically empower the most vulnerable Seville. It is the only carrier to offer practices in the gastronomy tourism sector as groups, such as women, youth, indigenous this route and now flies to eight a means of sustainable development, job and rural communities.” Spanish destinations from the creation and economic growth. Five hundred delegates attended the forum Hungarian capital. Ryanair saw a Zurab Pololikashvili, UNWTO Secretary- which also saw presentations from 25% year-on-year increase in General, said: “Gastronomy tourism is an gastronomy tourism start-ups from the Czech flights to Spanish destinations opportunity to promote local economic Republic, Israel, Italy, Japan and Spain. from Budapest in 2018.
More Middle East options with Gulf Air and Oman Air
AGENTS WILL have more options when booking flights for customers in and out of Bahrain and Muscat with Gulf Air and Oman Air expanding their codeshare agreement. In time for the airlines’ summer schedules, Gulf Air will place its GF code on Oman Air flights from Muscat to Salalah and Khasab in Oman, as well as to Nairobi in Kenya, Zanzibar in Tanzania, Goa and Lucknow in India, Kathmandu in Nepal and Jakarta in Indonesia. Meanwhile, Oman Air will place its WY code on Gulf Air flights from Bahrain to Tbilisi in Georgia, Baku in Azerbaijan, Gassim in Saudi Arabia and Beirut, the Lebanese capital. S02 TB 1005 2019 News 1_Layout 1 08/05/2019 16:24 Page 8
8 NEWS BULLETIN MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
PARTY IN PORTO... A-ROSA River Cruises christened its newest ship A-ROSA ALVA in Porto. It offers 63 cabins for 126 guests and features a pool, gym, sauna, sundeck and treatment rooms. She will sail a seven-night itinerary from Porto to Barca d’Alva and back. UK agents can now book sailings on A-ROSA ALVA with selected departures on sale with Shearings Holidays and Newmarket Holidays.
Inghams adds idyllic Italian itineraries for summer Gambia: a SPECIALIST TOUR operator Inghams is tasting sessions, entrance fees, a cooking year-round marking its 85th birthday with new Italian lesson, and the services of a tour guide itineraries in its Lakes & Mountains programme with visits to Bologna, Florence, Orvieto, destination for summer. Highlights include the ‘Peaks of Perugia, Ubrino and San Marino. The THE GAMBIA Experience Perfection’ activity week in Chamonix, a ‘Trekking the Cinque Terre’ trip includes has launched a 2019/2020 ‘Gastronomic Tour of Central Italy’ escorted detailed maps and transport tickets to allow brochure aimed at drawing group tour, a self-guided ‘Trekking the Cinque guests to explore Italy at their own pace, tourists all year round, and Terre’ tour, and offerings at Canazei in the including Isola Palmaria, a UNESCO World is offering agents an early Italian Dolomites, which hosts the Sounds of Heritage site. Priced from £815 per person, booking incentive for trips the Dolomites music festival, with 2019 this includes four-star accommodation on a booked by June 30. marking its 25th anniversary. bed-and-breakfast basis, a Cinque Terre rail Offering a wide choice of The Chamonix trip is priced from £789 card, bus tickets and boat transfers. In the flights, including a flying time per person on a catered basis with seven Dolomites, Inghams is offering a seven- of around six hours from nights’ accommodation in the three- night holiday to Canazei on a half-board London to Banjul, the diamond Hotel La Sapiniere. The basis at the four-star Hotel Cesa Tyrol, with Gambian capital, the seven-night ‘Gastronomic Tour of Central prices starting from £999 per person. operator is presenting a Italy’ itinerary is for a maximum of 12 Flights are included in all packages. range of holidays that go guests per group and costs from £1,799 per For more information, go to beyond the traditional beach person, including half-board www.agents.inghams.co.uk or call 01483 break packages. The Gambia accommodation in four-star hotels, all food 494 826. specialist can also arrange extras, such as overland excursions, boat trips and cooking experiences in local households, for groups of all sizes. A ‘Rivers of West Africa’ mega-yacht cruise has been added to the brochure, as well as a safari experience in the Fathala Wildlife Reserve in neighbouring Senegal. Agents who book trips before June 30 using the code PTBE will be able to add extras for free for their clients, such as lounge access, room upgrades and half-day private Land Rover hire with a guide. For more information about the brochure’s offerings, go to www.gambia.co.uk, call 01489 866 939 or email trade@serenityholidays. co.uk S03 TB 1005 2019 News 2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 15:32 Page 9
MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 9
AGENT TRAINING
TOURISM AUSTRALIA’S Aussie Specialist course gives agents the chance to win cases of wine and Corroboree West 2019 places. To find out more and take the training modules, go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/travelgym/ destination-training
SEABOURN CRUISES has launched the online Seabourn Academy. The six courses cover selling luxury travel, elements of ultra-luxury, leisure, destinations, locating, serving and attracting luxury travellers, and sales support. Agents who complete the course will receive rewards, including certification as a Seabourn TUI DONCASTER, St Sepulchre Gate, won Super Break’s ‘Agent of the luxury travel specialist, reduced fares, a £50 Month’ in the Yorkshire, Humberside and North West region. The agency Love2Shop voucher and Molton Brown has been promoting the Tutankhamun packages and Super Break’s show products. Go to www.seabournacademy.com of the month – Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Pictured are (L-R): Charlotte Stead, Dawn Jarvis, Jo Brown and Emma Rhodes – all travel advisors at TUI Doncaster, St Sepulchre Gate and Briony Smith, sales executive at Super Break.
COMPETITIONS! AGENT INCENTIVES Win a Dyson Supersonic Hairdryer ● GOLD MEDAL is giving agents the chance to win a nine-night holiday with Birmingham Airport for two to Dubai and Thailand to celebrate the launch of the Dubai & Beyond campaign and a mini-brochure. The prize includes return flights with Emirates, four nights’ accommodation in Dubai followed by five nights’ accommodation in Thailand, plus three Dubai Win a three-night stay for two at the experiences. To win, agents need to book a Gold Medal Dubai Sandos El Greco Hotel Ibiza package including flights with Emirates before September 30, send their booking reference to [email protected] and say why they want to go to Dubai and beyond. Full details at www.goldmedal.co.uk
● AGENTS CAN earn £50 per booking with Titan Travel throughout May Win a trip to Lapland for two with if they double their April bookings. To qualify for the May incentive, Newmarket Holidays. agents must at least double the number of bookings they made in April, aboard the MS Serenade 1 and MS Bellejour only by May 31. Each successful agent will receive £50 for every river cruise booking made in May. The existing £25 per booking incentive will still be Win three Pairs of tickets to honoured for each booking even if agents are unable to double their Amsterdam or Rotterdam with Eurostar4Agents overall April booking numbers by May 31. All vouchers must be claimed by emailing [email protected] at the end of VISIT the campaign. The deadline date to submit all vouchers is June 10. TRAVELBULLETIN.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS Visit www.titanagents.co.uk to find out more. S03 TB 1005 2019 News 2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 13:34 Page 10
10 NEWS BULLETIN MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Balkan bargains and new resorts in Bulgaria Thoroughly modern Malta improves BALKAN HOLIDAYS has added new resorts to its airport facilities portfolio, as featured in the MALTA INTERNATIONAL Airport company’s Summer has received a series of upgrades Holidays 2020 brochure. just in time for the busy summer Pictured is an artist’s period. The modernisation project impression of the new all- includes new flight information inclusive, four-star Wave screens which offer more flexibility Resort, which is scheduled for updating passengers with the to open in Pomorie, Bulgaria, latest information, and automated later this month. Overlooking systems for parking, flight the Black Seam it is aimed at scheduling and resource families and features four management. The Cruise and Fly restaurants, indoor and programme is also up and running. outdoor pools, bars, a spa, In the coming months, the water park and access to a airport will launch a new private beach. Prices for the baggage reconciliation system Wave Resort start at £641 to improve the handling of per person for seven nights, checked-in bags, boost security all-inclusive, flying from and reduce the risk of Gatwick. mishandled or lost luggage. Other new properties An artist’s impression of the new Wave Resort in Pomorie, Bulgaria. featured in the brochuree are: Hotel Trakia, Hotel Sunny Beach, on a bed and Doncaster/Sheffield, Durham Nessebar Beach, DAS Club breakfast basis, departing Tees Valley, East Midlands, Hotel, Hotel Rome Palace May 15, 2020, from Edinburgh, Gatwick, Deluxe, Hotel Best Western Birmingham Airport. Glasgow, Humberside, Plus Premium Inn and Hotel The company is also Leeds/Bradford, Luton, Burgas Beach, all in the offering a low deposit of £49 Manchester, Newcastle, “With a seven million traffic popular Sunny Beach area. per person, a 5% loyalty Norwich and Stansted. milestone on the horizon, it is Other new Bulgarian bonus for previous bookings, “We are keeping the lead- perhaps more important than properties in the brochure early bird discounts of up to in price at the same level as ever to harness innovation so as include: Hotel Festa Via £802 per couple, 22kg per previous years and to have access to real-time data Pontica Resort in Pomorie, person standard luggage continuing to add new hotels to plan ahead, make timely and the Cliff Beach & Spa allowance, transfers included to provide the best choice decisions, and improve our Hotel in Obzor. in the package price, group and best value for money agility in allocating the resources As well as the special price booking discounts, and no family holidays in Europe,” available in a way that enhances for the new resort in single supplements on said Chris Rand, head of the airport experience for our Pomorie, Balkan Holidays is selected dates. trade sales, Balkan Holidays. passengers and the ease with offering a lead-in price of Balkan Holidays trips For bookings, call 0207 543 which our team can perform £199 per person, based on depart from 18 regional 5555 or visit certain day-to-day tasks,” said two adults for seven nights airports: Aberdeen, Belfast, www.balkanholidays.co.uk/ Ian Maggi, the airport’s head of on staying at the Hotel Arda, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, agents innovation and technology.
Discounted divas with Italian opera cruises
OPERA LOVERS will be able to set sail with some serious singers as European Warerways offers 20% off Italian opera cruises aboard La Bella Vita – a hotel barge. The Opera Cruise programme starts this year in Venice on August 10 with a seven-night voyage, taking in a performance of Puccini’s Tosca in Verona. If booked by May 13, the cruise will cost £2,775 per person rather than £3,470, based on two people sharing a double cabin, including meals, open bar, excursions, transfers and a gondola ride. A 10% commission applies to travel agent bookings. For more information, go to www.europeanwaterways.com S03 TB 1005 2019 News 2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 13:34 Page 11
MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk PUZZLES BULLETIN 11
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, May 16. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. SUDOKU The winner for 26 April is Sarah (Seyyare) Beyzade, Diplomat Travel in London. D April 26 Solution: A=1 B=7 C=5 D=9
WHERE AM I?
A man-made mechanical forest of 18 solar-powered trees towering up to 50m high can be found in the south garden of this horticultural haven. Each supertree acts as a vertical garden and generates solar power, acting as air venting ducts for nearby conservatories, and collecting rainwater.
Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares.
Across Down 1. Value UK & Ireland hotel brand (10) 1. Movie biopic of The Lord of the Rings 5. Tour operator, New ___ Holidays (9) creator (7) 6. Flows through the capital of the Tyrol (3) 2. Colorado ski resort (5) 7. The Space Needle is an iconic landmark in 3. Japanese art of paper folding (7) this US city (7) 4. Picturesque Flemish city (5) 9. Capital of Kenya (7) 7. George Ezra's single in the charts for over 11. Legendary band, The ___ , currently touring a year (7) America (3) 8. Y indicates this fare class (7) 12. Stena operate from this port to Rosslare (9) 10. Street newspaper, The Big ___ (5) 13. National trail along the backbone of England 11. Kate Beckinsale was The ___ in a (7,3) recent ITV drama series (5)
CROSSWORD
Mystery word: OSTEND Where am I: Gardens by the Bay, Singapore. Bay, the by Gardens I: am Where OSTEND word: Mystery
Down: 1. TOLKIEN, 2. ASPEN, 3. ORIGAMI, 4. GHENT, 7. SHOTGUN, 8. ECONOMY, 10. ISSUE, 11. WIDOW. WIDOW. 11. ISSUE, 10. ECONOMY, 8. SHOTGUN, 7. GHENT, 4. ORIGAMI, 3. ASPEN, 2. TOLKIEN, 1. Down:
Across: 1. TRAVELODGE, 5. PRESIDENT, 6. INN, 7. SEATTLE, 9. NAIROBI, 11. WHO, 12. FISHGUARD, 13. PENNINE WAY. WAY. PENNINE 13. FISHGUARD, 12. WHO, 11. NAIROBI, 9. SEATTLE, 7. INN, 6. PRESIDENT, 5. TRAVELODGE, 1. Across: Solution: Solution: S03 TB 1005 2019 News 2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 13:34 Page 12
12 BULLETIN BRIEFING MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk Industry insight by......
Cherie Richards, commercial director for Global Travel Group, rises above the doom and gloom with a cheerful column about why she loves working in the travel industry.
HAVE YOU ever been to a social occasion as a result have lots of knowledge about often going above and beyond to or event where you are thrust into a the suppliers we work with and who secure those all-important sales. group of people you’ve never met goes where and offers what. With so much hard work it’s only right before? Chances are the conversation Anyone who works in this incredible that every now and again we take a step soon turns to work, as everyone industry will attest to the fact that it isn’t all back and review what is being desperately tries to fill the silence by play though; there is an incredible amount accomplished. Which brings me onto explaining what they do for a job. of hard work and resilience required. the upcoming ‘Global Rocks’ event, As an industry we have survived a which will take place at the Carden Park couple of recessions, more airline Hotel near Chester on July 4. strikes than we care to remember and The event was such a huge success “We are in the many geopolitical crises in the past few last year; we didn’t want to miss an years. Add to that the ongoing Brexit opportunity for this summer. In addition, business of negotiations and it’s fair to say as an our members always comment on how industry we don’t stand still. useful it is to get together with suppliers making people The truth for most agents is that their and the Global HQ team. year often rushes past as they work to Attendees should expect live music, happy and have a the major sales milestones. While clients plenty of food and drink and lots of are thinking about where to travel for laughs. There will of course be a serious passion for sales.” Easter, summer or Christmas, those at side to the day too. the sharp end are doing exactly the Some of our business partners will be same. We are in the business because in attendance, and there will be plenty of Having revealed I’m in travel, I bet I’m we like making people happy – we have time to network, so members can find out not alone in facing the inevitable follow a passion for sales, and generally share all the latest developments in the industry. up question: “Oooh,” people invariably a view that the world can be a better Going from daytime networking to an say, “I bet you go on lots of nice place when people experience it. evening party is perhaps the best real- holidays.” Well, yes, but that’s because I I’m constantly hearing of the hard life example of why I love working in the have worked in travel for 27 years and work that my members are putting in, travel industry.
Waikiki Beachcomber all set for a super summer
OUTRIGGER HOSPITALITY Group has opened the Waikiki Beachcomber, a new hotel for this famous Hawaiian address in the style of a contemporary beach house. The property features modern dining options, an expanded pool deck with infinity-style hot tub, stylish meeting venues for business travellers and modern guestrooms. The Outrigger brand has a long history in Waikiki, with a presence on the island for more than 70 years, and this latest launch updates the brand in a bid to attract new visitors as well as return guests. For bookings, go to www.outrigger.com S03 TB 1005 2019 News 2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 13:35 Page 13
MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 13
Sustainability tax reaps rewards in the Balearics
SINCE ITS introduction in July 2016, a sustainability tax, paid by guests at their accommodation, has helped fund numerous projects which benefit tourists as well as local residents across the Balearic Islands. Speaking at the Focus on Sustainability briefing, hosted by the Baleriac Islands, Alexandra Wilms, director of corporate communications for the Balearic Islands government, gave examples of multiple The Cami de Cavalls trail has been upgraded with sustainability tax money. projects where the tax has funded tourist-friendly clean; dune recovery accommodation has been projects is a good way to get improvements. projects, including the affected by Airbnb. customers on board. These projects include a installation of walkways so Clare Jenkinson, senior “This should resonate with four-year project to upgrade tourists can experience the destinations and everyone,” she said. the Cami de Cavalls trail in dunes without damaging sustainability manager for Other sustainability Menorca; the renovation of them; coastal clean-up ABTA, added that for agents strategies being implemented the San Diego convent in projects in Sant Antonio De who need to sell the idea of in the Balearics include grants Menorca; the purchase of Portmany Bay on the island the tourism tax to to help businesses install land in Mallorca to expand of Ibiza which create local customers, the best strategy solar panels for energy, and the Llevant National Park; an jobs; and social housing is to reiterate that they will installing around 1,200 underwater atlas to map the projects to enable tourism be contributing to making electric car charging points location and condition of industry workers to live the destination a better place across the islands this year to Posodonia seagrass, which affordably, particularly in for visitors. Sharing boost the use of electric helps keep the beaches areas where residential examples of the successful rental cars.
Year-round-destination promotion for crowd control
PROMOTING DESTINATIONS with “Low-season tourism will be their way to buses that are parked summer tourism peaks as all-year-round cheaper – and if you’ve got a great further away from the city centre when holiday options is important for product at a lower price, the market they visit popular sites, such as war sustainability and preventing will respond,” he said. memorials and battlefields. overtourism. This was a strong message Venice and Amsterdam were cited by In regard to the Balearics, Alexandra to delegates at the Focus on Mr Fairhurst as two examples where Wilms, director of corporate Sustainability briefing. tourism authorities have struggled to communications for the Balearic Tim Fairhurst, director of policy at the deal with crowd control concerns. He Islands government, said that European Tourism Association, said that said that in Venice, when police tried to strategies such as a limit on the “overtourism” is not a helpful word as it direct pedestrians in a one-way system, number of hotel places – set at 435,000 can be synonymous with “anti-tourism”. locals reacted by knocking down for Majorca, for example – and more Instead, he talked about the importance barriers, and in Amsterdam, attempts to stringent licensing requirements for of long-term planning, reducing control vehicle access, particularly buses, accommodation providers to prevent “regulatory fragmentation” and have not been entirely successful. low-quality rentals flooding the market, communication between government, However, he said that discouraging were among the strategies used in the locals and the private sector to ensure a buses entirely does not necessarily Spanish island group to keep numbers “much more holistic” approach to work because “buses tend to be low- at a sustainable level. developing tourism sustainably. emission [vehicles] and make very Ms Wilms told delegates that “The will is there but the political efficent use of road space.” He went promoting history, culture and obstacles are big,” he told delegates. on to say that Bruges has worked out gastronomy, rather than the beaches of Mr Fairhurst talked about promoting an effective policy which allows the Balearics, was the main strategy for traditional summer destinations in the visitors to bring their luggage to their increasing visitor numbers in the low low season based on lower prices. hotels by bus but they have to make season from October to May. S04 TB 1005 2019 Luxury Showcase PixMix_Layout 1 08/05/2019 11:51 Page 14
HEADLINE SPONSORS
LUXURY SHOWCASES LAST WEEK, Travel Bulletin headed to Southampton and Northampton to welcome local agents to its Luxury Showcases. As well as a chance to network with some of the best luxury destinations and hoteliers in the business, guests were treated to gorgeous food, drinks, and a chance to win some show-stopping prizes along Jen Bekker from Travel Counsellors admires the view of the way. Southampton harbour with Courtney Robinson from Turks & Caicos Islands.
Alisha Hosey from Thomas Cook found was the lucky winner of a three night stay for two in a four-star hotel in Vienna (including breakfast and 72-hour city card), courtesy of the Vienna Tourist Board. The prize was From the left, Travel Counsellor Ben Ronald meets with presented by the toursim board’s Thomas Bachinger Kay Jackson on the Cook Islands stand, with Trisha Holden from Freedom Travel and Eva James of Not Just Travel.
Travel Counsellor Jo Thompson hit the jackpot with a two-night stay at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino Pauline Westgarth (right) from Travel Counsellors won a four- in Las Vegas, presented by Adam Reeves from Caesars night stay for two at one of Constantinou Bros' four-star hotels, Entertainment. presented by the company’s Ellis Burns. S04 TB 1005 2019 Luxury Showcase PixMix_Layout 1 08/05/2019 11:52 Page 15
From the left and ready to meet with agents is: Daisy Friend, Indulgent Escapes by Jet2 Holidays; Debbie Lewis, Cook Islands; Ellis Burns, Constantinou Bros. Hotels; Sophia Buttigieg, Thanos Hotels; Chelsea Davies, AM Resorts; Chris Redfern, Palladium Hotels; James Howlett, Uniworld River Cruises; Emmanuelle Roslji, Europcar; Tom Morgan and Georgina Dawson, Riviera Travel; Bryony Boulter, Indulgent Escapes by Jet2 Holidays; and Marlen Taffarello for Aldemar Hotels & Resorts.
Lisa Hillyard from Travel Counsellors struck gold From the left: Travel Counsellors Lisa Hillyard and Paula during the evening, winning a stay with Grecotel Ross meet with Debbie Lewis of the Cook Islands, along with Travel Hotels & Resorts, presented by company Counsellor Melissa LoGalbo. representative Penny Naoum.
From the left, Travel Counsellors Robert Chadwick and Mary Allen meet with Shana Rohn for the Qatar Tourism Authority, along with Nadine Judd and Sarah Garley, also from Travel Counsellors. Brian Wooding (left) from Northampton Travel Services bagged a seven-night all- inclusive Want to get in on the #TBShowcases action? stay for two at the Grand Palladium Punta Next up is the NEW Train and Gain daytime event taking place in Cana Resort, presented by Palladium Hotel’s Chris Redfern. Dorking on May 21. To confirm your place or find out when we will be hosting our next Showcase event near you contact [email protected] S04 TB 1005 2019 Luxury Showcase PixMix_Layout 1 08/05/2019 11:52 Page 16 S05 TB 1005 2019 Theme Parks & Attractions_Layout 1 08/05/2019 11:35 Page 17
THEME PARKS AND ATTRACTIONS
Image Credit: Disney
Kronasar makes IN A GALAXY FAR a splash MAKING A grand debut for May 31, Europa-Park will be FAR AWAY… welcoming the first visitors to its newest hotel: Kronasar. Disney makes the punch to light speed with Star Wars: The Scandinavian inspired Galaxy’s Edge property will be the park’s sixth themed hotel and be modelled on IN RECOGNITION of Finn and Poe along with or pledge loyalty to the First a natural history museum, tremendous demand, Disney BB-8 and Chewie. Order – could impact a providing accommodation for up has made the decision to open Phase two, opening later guest’s adventures to 1,300 overnight guests across Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge this year, will see the throughout the land. 276 themed rooms and 28 suites, ahead of schedule and in two introduction of ‘Star Wars: In anticipation of high along with on-site restaurants. phases at Disneyland Park in Rise of the Resistance’, an guest interest, it’s required California on May 31; and at attraction which will place that those planning to visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios at guests in the middle of a Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World Resort in climactic starship battle Disneyland Park between Florida on August 29. between the First Order and May 31 and June 23 have On opening day for phase the Resistance with the valid theme park admission one, visitors will become chance to face off against and a no-cost reservation, part of the Star Wars saga Kylo Ren himself. subject to availability, for The resort will mark the when they are transported to The two 14-acre lands – the access. Information on how completion of the first stage of the remote planet of Batuu to largest and most to make a reservation will be Europa-Park’s soon-to-be-realised sample galactic food and technologically advanced available at a later date on ‘Rulantica’ water world, which is beverages, explore intriguing single-themed land Disneyland.com expected to be built by the close merchant shops and take the expansions in Disney park Guests staying at one of of 2019. Complete with a Nordic controls of the most famous history – aim to add a new the three Disneyland Resort legends theme, the new park will ship in the galaxy aboard dimension to the concept of hotels during these dates feature 25 water attractions for ‘Millennium Falcon: total immersion through the will receive a designated the whole family and once open, Smugglers Run’. Play Disney Parks mobile app. reservation to access the those staying at Kronasar will be Along the way, guests may Choices made on the app – land during their stay able to gain exclusive access via even come across some such as choosing to aid a (one reservation per a connecting bridge. familiar faces such as Rey, smuggler, join the Resistance registered guest). Go to www.europa-park.de/en S05 TB 1005 2019 Theme Parks & Attractions_Layout 1 08/05/2019 15:38 Page 18
18 THEME PARKS AND ATTRACTIONS MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Tigris roars into DO YOU DARE Bush Gardens BUSCH GARDENS Tampa Bay continues its 60th anniversary ENTER THE celebrations with the opening of Tigris, Florida’s tallest launch coaster, and more details FORBIDDEN FOREST? revealed on a new attraction due to arrive in 2020. Universal Orlando unveils an immersive coaster experience Designed to mimic the agility of guaranteed to put a spell on wizarding fans the world’s largest and most powerful cat, guests boarding Tigris can expect to be catapulted through an exhilarating array of looping twists with forward and backward motion, breath-taking drops, a 150-ft skyward surge, and an inverted heartline roll, all at more than 60 miles per hour. Construction has also begun on a new hybrid coaster. Scheduled to make its debut next year, the newest addition is tipped to become North America’s tallest hybrid, and the fastest, steepest hybrid coaster in the world.
ON JUNE 13, ‘Hagrid’s Magical Creatures sidecar and embark on a journey to get Motorbike Adventure’ – the newest addition closer to some of the wizarding world’s rarest to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – will magical creatures. But as they make their soar into Universal Orlando Resort. way through the Forbidden Forest things The attraction will combine innovative don’t go as planned… coaster technology with rich environments During their freewheeling flight, guests will Busch Gardens will also soon and sets – including an actual forest with twist and turn, rush forward and backward at be integrating its ‘Summer Nights’ more than 1,200 live trees – so that, with speeds of up to 50mph, whilst encountering concept. With extended opening Hagrid as their guide, guests can fly deep centaurs, swarms of mischievous Cornish hours and running on each night into the Forbidden Forest and brave the thrills pixies, Fluffy the three-headed dog and from May 31 to August 11, park and mysteries to be found beyond the further surprises in the dark forest’s depths. guests can take on their grounds of Hogwarts castle. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike favourite thrills in the dark (now It all begins when guests join Hagrid’s Care Adventure will be located in The Wizarding including Tigris), dance the night of Magical Creatures class and board magical World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at away in themed party zones and motorbikes specially designed to make them Universal’s Islands of Adventure. enjoy a fireworks finale each feel the freedom of flight. Guests will either For more information visit Friday, Saturday and Sunday ride the motorcycle or board the adjacent www.universalorlando.co.uk night, throughout summer.
Summer festival fun at a fairytale theme park EFTELING, THE fairytale theme park in the south of Holland, is set to welcome its annual Summer Festival, taking place every Friday and Saturday in July and August. The festival will see live performances including story telling corners, street theatre shows and pop-ups serving summer delicacies throughout the season. The entertainment programme will also feature on Friday and Saturday nights when the park will stay open longer, giving guests more opportunities to experience the park’s enchartment after dark and to ride the roller coasters into the late evenings. On other days in July and August the park will stay open until 8pm. DFDS is offering a five-night Efteling break travelling from Newcastle to Amsterdam and priced from £221 per person based on a car, en suite cabin and four people, return, including entrance tickets to the theme park. Agents will receive 10% commission when booking through DFDS. Go to www.efteling.com or www.dfdsseaways.co.uk/holidays/family-holidays/efteling S05 TB 1005 2019 Theme Parks & Attractions_Layout 1 08/05/2019 15:39 Page 19
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An out-of-this-world experience from Funway Seas the chance to THIS JULY will mark 50 years meet Aquaman since Apollo 11 Commander WARNER BROS. Studio Tour Neil Armstrong landed on Hollywood in Burbank, Los the moon, and to celebrate Angeles has opened a
NASA Space Center Houston dedicated Aquaman exhibit at Image Credit: Warner Bros. Studio Tour will be organising ‘DC Universe: The Exhibit’. celebratory events. This includes a restoration of the Mission Operations Control Room and other areas back to their 1969 appearance, so visitors can step back in time to the momentous event. for an orientation tour. The sightseeing tour by open-top The immersive installation Funway Holidays is offering center offers interactive bus before the visit. will take visitors to the a ‘NASA's Space Center displays with everything from The operator can offer a underwater world of Atlantis Houston and City Sightseeing equipment used in space to a seven-night stay in Houston at with recreated sets and Tour’ from £62 per person. full-size rocket and space Best Western Plus New Caney original prop displays from the During this six-hour excursion, shuttle. Visitors can see Inn & Suites from £1,545 per 2018 film. Fans can pose for a holidaymakers can expect to real astronauts at work person including flights from photo on the real set of King experience the excitement of throughout the NASA facility the UK with United Airlines Atlan’s throne and get a look outer space on a visit to and learn about space and based on two adults at the authentic costumes Space Center Houston, the exploration from hands-on sharing, departing July 15. worn by the all star cast. official visitor centre for exhibits. The tour also Go to Go to www.wbstudiotour.com NASA’s Johnson Space includes a morning www.funway4agents.co.uk to find out more. Center and hop aboard a tram 75-minute Houston city for more details. S06 TB 1005 2019 Theme Parks & Atrractions_2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 16:39 Page 20
20 THEME PARKS AND ATTRACTIONS MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk WORD ON THE STREET All the fun, laughter and learning of Sesame Street comes to SeaWorld Orlando
VISITORS TO SeaWorld Monster's Foodie Truck Orlando can now take a stroll Challenge’. down Sesame Street. There are six colourful, Built to replicate the iconic themed rides for kids old and TV neighbourhood − including young: ‘Abby’s Flower Tower’, Abby Cadabby’s Garden, Big ‘Cookie Drop!’, ‘Slimey’s Bird’s Nest, Mr. Hooper’s Slider’, ‘Big Bird’s Twirl ‘n’ Store and the famous 123 Whirl’, ‘Elmo’s Choo Choo Stoop – the land is six-acres in Train’ and ‘Super Grover’s Box size and a major part of Car Derby’, as well as the Sesame Street’s year-long ‘Rubber Duckie Water Works’ 50th anniversary celebrations. wet play area. Mark Pauls, president of Scheduled daily highlights SeaWorld Orlando, said: “We in the neighbourhood include are thrilled to officially ‘Storytime with Big Bird’ at his welcome guests to walk down nest and the ‘Sesame Street Sesame Street for the very any our SeaWorld parks. With Educational and interactive Party Parade’ featuring Elmo, first time in the theme park over 30 new ways to play and experiences include: ‘Elmo’s Big Bird and friends, colourful capital of the world. This an award-winning parade, Window’, inviting guests to floats, and special surprises highly anticipated, immersive guests of all ages will love this play, dance, and sing with along the way. new land is the largest new land and we are excited everybody’s favourite furry For more details, visit Sesame Street land inside of to share it with the world.” red monster; and ‘Cookie www.seaworldparks.co.uk S06 TB 1005 2019 Theme Parks & Atrractions_2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 11:41 Page 21
MAY 10 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk THEME PARKS AND ATTRACTIONS 21
Fun-loving Angry Birds spread their wings in Qatar
THE SECOND phase of the world’s first Angry Birds theme ANGRY BIRDS WORLD constitutes one of the three major park has opened in Doha. entertainment parks that are managed by Trimoo Parks at Doha Following the launch of its indoor section last year, the world’s Festival City, located along Al Shamal Road. The mall is home first ANGRY BIRDS WORLD entertainment park at Doha Festival to VIRTUOCiTY – the region’s first gaming capital, and soon to City celebrated the completion of its second phase, welcoming open SNOW DUNES – the country’s first indoor snow park. families to a grand opening of its outdoor area. For more destination information go to www.visitqatar.qa Home to the Angry Birds flock, famous for their mobile bird-flinging gameplay, the 17,000sq.m indoor-and-outdoor destination in Qatar has a wide variety of fun family attractions. New exterior attractions include a large ‘Super Slingshot’ themed around the game that catapults guests more than 60m into the air. ‘Red’s House’ offers sand play activities for little ones while the ‘Raft Battle’ takes visitors on a voyage from Bird Island to Piggy Island in an interactive cinematic experience. There’s also the Angry Coaster or the park’s City Studio complete with wall climbing, slides, and ropes course. Indoors, visitors can enjoy more rides, a laser tag battle, the world’s first indoor/outdoor karting track and The Big Tree – a multi-level creative playground offering a variety of ‘edutainment’ workshops for little ones and active challenges such as rope courses and ziplines. Commenting on the opening of the Angry Birds World, Rashed AlQurese, chief marketing officer for the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC), said: “We continue to deliver on the Next Chapter’s promise of enhancing the Qatar visitor experience and our private sector partners’ support in this regard is of high value to us. Urban and family-oriented entertainment is one of the six areas that we are focusing on for the development of tourism sector. We are pleased to see the Angry Bird World added to the list of Qatar’s unique visitor experiences. Such amazing indoor recreational facilities combined with our calendar of festivals will give tourists more reasons to visit Qatar throughout the year.” Ali Bin Mohamed Bin Khalifa Al-Attia, Deputy CEO of Leisure and owner of Trimoo Parks – the company operating the entertainment park - said: “We are extremely delighted to open our doors to a first-of-its-kind indoor outdoor destination. Visitors can enjoy a uniquely immersive experience that will delight the whole family – children and adults alike.” S06 TB 1005 2019 Theme Parks & Atrractions_2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 17:11 Page 22
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Extra Yorkshire Night-time spectacular sparks Epcot transformation thrills with ‘EPCOT FOREVER’, a new night-time Attraction World spectacular at Walt Disney World Resort, will ATTRACTION WORLD has a make its debut on October 1 on the World range of exclusive tickets Showcase Lagoon at Epcot. available for the Lightwater The limited-time show will be a celebration Valley theme park in of the past, present and future of the park, Yorkshire, such as a Ride complete with fireworks, lighting, lasers and Queue Buster on every ticket, choreographed, special effects kites, tickets that include a meal accompanied by a stirring collection of songs. and new tickets which also Alan Bruun, show director for Disney Parks Live include a round of Jurassic Entertainment, said: “‘Epcot Forever’ is a Adventure Mini-golf. celebration of what Epcot has been and what Located on the outskirts of Epcot is going to become. Music is the star of in October, ‘Epcot Forever’ will continue into Ripon, in the North Yorkshire the show, and we use songs going back to the 2020, when it will then make way for the debut countryside, kids, teenagers very beginnings of Epcot to music in the park of the next epic Epcot night-time spectacular as and grown-ups alike can enjoy today – from attractions, spectaculars and part of the park’s multi-year transformation. a day of fun with plenty of other shows – and put them into a fireworks Projects currently in development at Epcot family-friendly rides for those spectacular on the lagoon every night. Guests include: a ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ themed aged between one and nine, are going to hear music they know and love attraction, which will be one of the longest alongside some larger thrill but in a whole new way.” enclosed roller coasters in the world; changes rides for older adventurers. The current Epcot night-time spectacular, to the main entrance plaza; and ‘Remy’s Go to www.attractionworld.com ‘IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth’, will end its Ratatouille Adventure’ in the France pavilion; to find out more. 20-year run on September 30. After it launches among others.
Gardaland Resort casts ‘A Year of Magic’ for 2019 THE NEW season of Gardaland Resort has begun with a year of new additions dedicated to the world of magic. Aldo Maria Vigevani, CEO of the theme park said: “Gardaland has always represented an extraordinary journey into the worlds of adventure and fantasy, capable of inspiring and entertaining adults and children alike, but magic is the third element that makes the park so unique and is behind its extraordinary success.” As part of its 2019 ‘Year of Magic’, the park is to introduce new thrills such as: the ‘Enchanted Forest’, an interactive path for families to take in their mission to defeat an evil witch; magical theming on the adrenaline- filled ‘Sequoia Magic Loop’ rollercoaster; and the new ‘Magic Elements’ show. There will be magical acts introduced to the park’s events and daily opening alongside the grand debut of Gardaland Magic Hotel at the end of this month. For further information visit www.gardaland.it
Where was your favourite childhood holiday?
Jeanette Ratcliffe Simon Eddolls Hannah Carter Publisher Sales Director Events Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Ice cream on Polzeath Beach, Cornwall Devon, aged 9, sunburnt Summers in Cornwall bodyboarding
Georgia Lewis Matt Gill Ashweenee Beerjeraz Managing Editor - News Senior Account Manager Events Assistant [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Europe in a Ford Escort, 1979 Cala Millor, Mallorca, 2005 Rodrigues Island
Adam Potter Tim Podger EVENTS Features Editor Account Manager - Far East [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Caravan holiday on the Isle of Wight France in a campervan DESIGN [email protected] Emmet McGonagle Bill Coad Staff Writer - News Account Manager PRODUCTION [email protected] [email protected] Somewhere sunny - they’ve all merged Clacton-on-Sea in a caravan [email protected] ACCOUNTS Vidwan Reddy Sarah Terry Online Editorial Assistant Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] CIRCULATION Water parks First time abroad - sunny Spain [email protected] S06 TB 1005 2019 Theme Parks & Atrractions_2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 11:41 Page 23 S06 TB 1005 2019 Theme Parks & Atrractions_2_Layout 1 08/05/2019 11:41 Page 24