TB 2009 2019 Cover_Layout 1 17/09/2019 10:16 Page 1

September 20 2019 | ISSUE NO 2,123 | travelbulletin.co.uk Giving agents the edge

BULLETIN BRIEFING RIVER CRUISE AGENT INSIGHT OCEAN CRUISE In a turbulent industry can It’s time to debunk those Bring out the best on a Find out how you can win a agents rise to the challenge? river cruise myths trip to Budapest festive cruise with CMV Take the legwork out of selling Lapland © Olonkho Cover pic : S01 TB 2009 2019 Start_Layout 1 18/09/2019 14:25 Page 2 S01 TB 2009 2019 Start_Layout 1 18/09/2019 15:05 Page 3

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 3 THIS WEEK RATINGS REPORT While most travel companies know how influential ratings are, many do not know how to manage ratings strategically.

04 Only 20% of firms surveyed NEWS have an effective strategy to Industry updates to help agents sell deal with bad ratings. more holidays to their clients

08 AGENT INSIGHT Jenny from Blue Eye Travel on selling holidays to Budapest

13 AIR TRAVEL The new flights & codeshares opening up Brazil A STUDY by Trend Radar has with bad ratings. Simon-Kucher, said: “There’s found that 60% of travellers Many companies already enormous untapped worldwide use customer recognise the key role ratings potential here. If companies ratings in their purchasing play in business. In fact, 55% focus on four or five of the decisions when planning of companies surveyed most common criticisms, holidays, while 43% regularly consider ratings “very they can reduce their risk of 17 leave ratings themselves. important”. Four-out-of five receiving low ratings,” In addition to this, the companies surveyed even The study also shows that, LAPLAND expect the importance of in addition to actively Treat clients with these elegant study found that when retreats & authentic Lappish making a purchase, ratings ratings to increase over the managing their weaknesses, experiences are the third most important next three years, primarily companies can benefit factor after product features affecting brand development, financially from nudging and price, which means they sales, and pricing. satisfied customers to leave are even more influential Only a fifth of providers ratings, since high ratings than the brand itself in the state that they have a clear can increase the price decision-making process. strategy for handling ratings, customers are willing to pay 21 The results also revealed while 6% draw conclusions for a hotel or trip. that even though most travel from direct customer feedback Interestingly, 50% of the RIVER CRUISE AmaWaterways moves into 2020 sector companies are aware to improve their product and consumers surveyed said with trade focused strategy of how important ratings are, quality management. they would be more inclined only about 20% of the firms Dimitris Hiotis, global head to rate their experience if surveyed currently have an of the Leisure, Travel and they were offered effective strategy to deal Transportation practice at something in return. 27

OCEAN CRUISE Published by : Printed by: Buxton Press @TravelBulletin How the cruise industry is working Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd Subscriptions are £125 p.a.  020 7834 6661 @TravelBulletin towards a sustainable future University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor £195 overseas Place London, SW1W 0EX ISSN: 0956-2419 www.travelbulletin.co.uk Travel_Bulletin S01 TB 2009 2019 Start_Layout 1 17/09/2019 12:35 Page 4

4 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

School’s out for skiing and snowboarding holidays Half-term family fun at La Manga Club

LA MANGA Club is dishing up sporting fun in the Spanish sun for all the family this October half-term, with savings of up to 20% across a range of sports and leisure activities and accommodation during the school holidays. Guests can enjoy reduced rates of 15% on golf, tennis, spa treatments and at official resort restaurants, with additional discounts available when booking an accommodation package. Breaks are bookable in both La TO TAKE advantage of the between our toes last week. d’Huez for £981 per person, Manga Club’s five-star Hotel good skiing conditions and But now the kids are back at saving £154 per person, Principe Felipe or four-star Las events at resorts during school, we are about to book departing on December 28. Lomas Village self-catering peak dates, such as our ski holiday so we all have For the first half-term accommodation, with a five-night Christmas, new year, half- something to look forward to. break of 2020, guests who stay for a family of four in a two- term and Easter, Skiworld These offers come at the depart on February 22 will bedroom apartment starting from has launched “School’s perfect time as prices can only receive a free lift pass and 592 euros – a saving of around Out” discounts. These dates go up from now on for the ski hire for catered chalets, 150 euros. are particularly popular popular school holiday dates.” which can be combined with amongst families who are Among the Christmas a group discount for whole restricted to school deals is a £994-per-person chalet bookings. holidays and people who package at Chalet An example of the Easter work within term-time. Stoanerhof in Mayrhofen, deals includes a £921 per The deals offer savings of departing on December 21. person six-day stay at Chalet Resort credit vouchers of 100 up to £500 per person in The price includes flights, Val Rogoney in Val d’Isere, euros on holidays of five to seven selected catered chalets and transfers, six days chalet departing on April 11, 2020, nights are also on offer, together self-catered apartments and catering, a lift pass and ski saving £466 per person. with discounts on Junior Club hotels at European resorts. hire, representing a saving of To find out more about the places and free dining for children Robert Dixon, marketing £325 per person. school holiday offers, visit under-five when eating with an manager at Skiworld said, “We For the new year, guests can www.skiworld.co.uk/ski- adult in one of of La Manga Club’s were on the beach with sand stay at Residence Les Horizons deals/schools-out official restaurants.

Shiiiny, happy people loving bands… FANS OF indie and dance music from the 80s and 90s will be descending on Butlin’s for the Shiiine On Weekender event, an adults-only break which will take place at the company’s Minehead property from November 15-18. Headliners include: Lightning Seeds, Embrace, The Wonder Stuff, Idlewild and The Farm; who will all perform live sets at Minehead’s 5,000-capacity indoor arena. There will be DJ sets from Adamsky, as well as performances from Transglobal Underground, SICE (Boo Radleys), Pop will eat itself, Jim Bob and Jesus Jones. Throughout the weekend, guests can also take advantage of unlimited use of Butlin’s Splash Waterworld and sports sessions, activities such as bowling and American pool, as well as the Minehead seaside location. The three-night break starts from £175 per person, based on four adults sharing a Silver apartment. To book, go to www.BourneLeisureSales.co.uk S02 TB 2009 2019 News_1_Layout 1 17/09/2019 14:36 Page 5

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 5

NCL hits the right note with Kelly Clarkson Rotana unveils new hotel in Bosnia GRAMMY AWARD-winning forward to celebrating In addition to featuring artist Kelly Clarkson is to serve Norwegian Encore’s debut many of the highly rated ROTANA HAS announced the as godmother to Norwegian in Miami with her, this restaurants and lounges that official opening of Bosmal Arjaan Cruise Line’s newest ship, November.” have made the Breakaway by Rotana, its first hotel in Norwegian Encore. Kelly Clarkson added: “I Plus class one of the most Bosnia and Herzegovina. The cruise line’s president am so honoured to be successful in the company’s Located within Sarajevo’s and chief executive officer named the godmother to history, Norwegian Encore Bosmal City Centre complex, the Andy Stuart appeared on Norwegian Encore, and to will debut a new elevated new property offers 132 fully The Kelly Clarkson Show to get to be a part of such a Italian dining experience, serviced one-, two- and three- make the announcement. special ceremony to Onda by Scarpetta. It will bedroom deluxe hotel apartments, Stuart said: “We knew we christen the new ship in also feature the world’s a restaurant, two meeting rooms, wanted someone who Miami. I believe that longest race track at sea; and a fitness and wellness club represents our core values. surrounding yourself with the largest outdoor laser tag featuring a gymnasium, a sauna, a Kelly is a role model who is the ones you love and arena with the addition of Turkish bath, and multiple passionate about family and taking time for them is augmented reality elements; treatment rooms. Each of the community, as well as music important while having the and a new escape room and spacious accommodations and entertainment. These most amazing and interactive theatre includes a fully equipped kitchen, are our passions too! We unforgettable holiday, which experiences in the modern amenities and the latest are honoured to have her is what Norwegian Cruise 10,000sq.ft Galaxy Pavilion. in-room technologies. join our family of Line stands for and provides For more information visit godparents and look for its guests.” www.ncl.com

Theatrical breaks with Osprey Holidays

OSPREY HOLIDAYS has announced that as offering a wider choice of tours, excursions it is offering a range of tailor-made UK and experiences.” Theatre Breaks. Prices start from £195 per person for a two- The UK breaks programme includes travel by night London Theatre Break staying at the The hotel will be located close air or rail as well as hotel only options with three-star Hotel Bedford including breakfast and to the city centre and its largest theatre tickets, tours and excursions, all of which a ticket to ‘9 to 5 The Musical’ at the Savoy shopping mall, and is a short drive are now fully bookable through agents. Theatre, based on November 17. from major attractions including Michael Bennett, managing director of the For a two-night London Theatre Break staying the Old Town and the famous Vrelo tour operator, said: “Osprey has offered UK at the four-star Park International Hotel including Bosne Park at the foothills of cities and short breaks for years with a focus on breakfast, return rail from Manchester and a Mount Igman. London and Edinburgh and it felt the time was ticket to ‘The Lion King’, prices start from £379 For more details, visit right to expand and add theatre breaks as well per person for November 5. www.rotana.com

Singapore Airlines launches non-stop flights to Seattle SINGAPORE AIRLINES (SIA) continues its expansion of non-stop services to the US with the departure of flight SQ28 from Singapore to Seattle. Seattle is the fourth US destination after Los Angeles, New York (Newark) and San Francisco to be served non-stop from Singapore. The Seattle flights will initially be operated three times weekly before increasing to four times weekly in October, bringing the total number of weekly non-stop Singapore-US services to 31. When combined with SIA’s existing one-stop services to Houston, Los Angeles, New York (JFK) and San Francisco, total US service frequency will increase to 57 per week. Airbus A350-900 aircraft fitted with 42 Business Class, 24 Premium Economy Class and 187 Economy Class seats are used on the route. With advanced technology and superior operating efficiency, the A350-900 offers customers an improved travelling experience with features such as higher ceilings, larger windows, an extra wide body and cabin lighting designed to reduce jetlag. S02 TB 2009 2019 News_1_Layout 1 17/09/2019 14:36 Page 6

6 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Cruise into Christmas with market voyages Wellness at Dusit Thani Maldives Guests can ride into classic European cities THE DEVARANA Spa at Dusit for the festive season. Thani Maldives has launched a new wellness programme, giving guests the opportunity to learn more about Thai massage and Thai stretching treatments. Every Wednesday morning, guests can learn Thai massage, with the spa’s expert therapists in the Devarana Sanctuary. Considered a part of traditional Thai medicine, Thai massage combines elements of yoga, meditation, acupressure and assisted stretching to relieve SCENIC LUXURY Cruises and Rhine Christmas Markets can experience Christmas physical and emotional tension. Tours is offering a range of cruise is an eight-day trip 2020 early with a November Research has shown that Thai Christmas market sailings from Amsterdam to Basel, tour taking in the highlights of massage can increase physical into European cities for the including Amsterdam’s the Canadian Rockies. energy levels, relieve headaches, 2019 and 2020 festive canals, the Cologne Cathedral Starting out in Banff, this 16- stimulate circulation and improve seasons. markets, and Strasbourg’s day trip takes in Lake Louise, range of motion. For 2019, there is limited Christkindelsmärik, one of the Athabasca Glacier, Jasper, the availability on the 15-day largest Christmas markets in picturesque fruit growing Christmas Markets sailing Europe. Prices start from region of the Okanagan Valley, combining two itineraries on £2,170 per person departing Vancouver and Victoria. a Budapest-to-Amsterdam on December 2, 2020. Prices start from £5,995 voyage. The trip switches The eight-day Danube per person departing from the Danube to the Christmas Markets cruise November 26, 2020. Every Saturday morning, guests Rhine via the main Danube travels from Nuremberg to All prices include flights, can also learn traditional Thai Canal, offering the chance Budapest, taking in the private door-to-door Stretching postures typical to the to take in the UNESCO-listed festive markets of Thurn und chauffeur transfers, ancient “Rusie Dotton” method. Bavarian town of Bamberg, Taxis Palace in Regensberg. gratuities, wining and These exercises are designed to along with Rothenburg’s Prices start from £2,195 per dining experiences and all promote flexibility, improve Reiterlesmarkt. Prices start person, departing shore excursions. circulation, reduce stress, and from £2,845 per person December 10, 2020. For more information visit boost concentration. departing November 20. Heading further afield, www.scenic.co.uk or call Both classes are complimentary Looking ahead to 2020, the adventurous holidaymakers 0808 301 6312 for guests staying at the resort.

Wendy Wu’s business class boost is back WENDY WU Tours and Cathay Pacific are offering free business class upgrades from Dublin on selected tours to China and Japan. The upgrades will be available on bookings made between now and October 7. The upgrades are available one-way on selected group and private tours including flagship tours in China such as the 14-day Majestic Yangtze, priced from 3,690 euros per person; 16-day Wonders of China, priced from 3,890 euros per person; and the 22-day Magnificent China itinerary, priced from 4,490 euros per person. In Japan, tours include the 13-day Discover Japan, priced from 7,090 euros per person; 11-day Jewels of Japan from 6,690 euros per person and the eight-day Week in Japan trip, priced from 5,090 euros per person. Visit www.wendywutours.ie for more information. S02 TB 2009 2019 News_1_Layout 1 18/09/2019 15:56 Page 7

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 7

Going wild for ‘Jane Goodall Collection’ tours A relaxed Ibizan rhythm this autumn G ADVENTURES has added 12 tours to its ‘Jane Goodall PROMISING A slow-paced Collection’ of wildlife- island experience this autumn, focused tours for 2020, Aiyanna Ibiza restaurant will be supporting conservation and hosting a series of local art responsible wildlife tourism. exhibitions, yoga mornings, as The wildlife-focused tours well as local artisan food trucks include adventures in throughout the season. Indonesia, Botswana, Belize, the Northwest US, mainland Ecuador, the Arctic and Antarctic, and other diverse destinations around the globe. The tour operator's partnership with Jane Goodall Institute of Canada enters the fourth year. Each tour is endorsed by companies who share our Since it launched, the U.N Messenger of Peace, values is a priority for JGI. collection has welcomed Jane Goodall, whose G Adventures is one of those Aiyanna Ibiza sources the close to 15,000 travellers Institute protects companies that understands majority of its produce from its from around the world and endangered species through and appreciates our work very own organic vegetable has seen more than $100,000 conservation strategies that and is prepared to support it. garden with meat and fish in funds and travel incorporate the needs of We are extremely grateful for dishes carefully selected from assistance donated by the local communities. G Adventures’ support.” local fisherman and farmers. tour operator to support the Andria Teather, Jane For more information, go to Menus include an array of conservation mission of Goodall Institute of Canada’s www.gadventures.com/ dishes including octopus Goodall’s nonprofit institute. CEO, said: “Partnering with jane-goodall "fideuá" (noodles cooked in paella style) and grilled razor clams with grilled leaks and a Warner warms to autumn and winter discounts lightly creamed broth. Aiyanna Ibiza will also WARNER LEISURE Hotels is offering on two adults sharing Standard accommodation showcase talent and cultural discounts on all three- and four-night breaks inclusive of the Simply Dine package. points of interest for all ages, taken between now and December 31. The sale offers savings across the entire including a unique collection For bookings made before October 7, Warner portfolio, so guests have a choice of Guatemalan barriletes guests can save £50 per room, as well as a between all of the brand’s 14 retreats. (which translate as ‘giant discount of £100 on selected hotels and There will be plenty of daytime activities to kites’) that are a wash of breaks. Deposits start at £35. take advantage of. The retreats will further colour and vibrancy. For example, a three-night weekend stay at feature performances from the world of Aiyanna Ibiza will be open Lakeside Coastal Village in Hampshire, arriving music, theatre, comedy and dance. until Ocober 20. on October 11, starts from £169 per person, To book, go to For more information or to book, including the £100 discount. This price is based www.BourneLeisureSales.co.uk visit www.aiyannaibiza.com

Travel 2 launches 2019/2020 brochure TRAVEL 2 HAS announced the launch of the Simply Luxury brochure. The new brochure contains all of the Simply Luxury's programme in one place, making it easier for agents to navigate. There are eight new properties for 2019/20 in Europe, across Greece, Spain, Cyprus, Turkey and Morocco. Further new additions are coming in 2020, including the 1 Hotel Brooklyn in New York and the NoMad in Las Vegas, taking the USA offer to a total of 28 hotels. Full details are available on www.travel2.com S02 TB 2009 2019 News_1_Layout 1 17/09/2019 14:36 Page 8

8 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

LOCATED EITHER side of the Danube, can pick up food from market stalls or Known as the “City of Baths”, Budapest, the capital city of Hungary try out the famous chimney cakes. Budapest has many thermal baths, so is a great place for your client's next Made from a sweet baked pastry it is a must for anyone visiting the city. European City Break. which is covered in sugar and cooked There are a number of baths from There is plenty to explore in this over hot coals, the chimney cakes large complexes to smaller ones, so beautiful city, from its architectural come in many flavours and colours; I it depends on what sort of buildings, such as the Hungarian had a rainbow coloured one when I experience you’re looking for. I Parliament Building or the Fisherman's was there! visited the Gellért Baths, which is Bastion, through to the thermal baths For wine connoisseurs, Hungary considered to be one of the most throughout the city. offers many different varieties from beautiful bathing destinations in the Budapest is an easy city to walk around 22 regions. Whilst in Budapest city. The pools range from 26°C (79°F) around in and I would recommend there are plenty of places to sample to 40°C (104°F), and you'll also find that you find a centrally located hotel the local wines, at wine bars and on dry and steam saunas, treatment for your clients to stay in. If they wish tours where your clients can pick what rooms, outside pools and sunbathing to stay a little further out, they can suits them best. When I visited areas for the summer months. When take the tram within the city, as tickets Budapest we spent a few hours at you arrive, you are provided with an are easy to get from the tram stations. Cultivini, where you use a pre-paid electronic wrist band that gives you As well as its architectural beauty, card to purchase different glass sizes access to the changing rooms, which Budapest also offers clients the chance of the wines you wish to try. you lock and can only open with to sample different types of Hungarian Whilst I was in Budapest, my your wrist band whilst you’re in the food and wine. For those who want to husband and I had dinner at the baths. You are required to wear a taste some traditional Hungarian restaurant at Fisherman's Bastion and swimming cap in some of the pools, dishes there is the Central Market Hall, it is definitely worth it if clients want a so it is worth buying one before which was built at the end of the 19th lovely meal out or to celebrate a travelling or they can be purchased Century and is the largest indoor special occasion. Both the food and at the baths. Flip flops and a towel market in Budapest. Here you can eat wine were good, and there are are another must. traditional dishes or buy some musicians who occasionally walk If clients are looking for culture, souvenirs to take home, such as around but are not intrusive. The history, experiences, good food and paprika. For something a little quirkier, views over the Danube and the wine then I can definitely recommend there are lots of ruins, bars and areas Parliament building lit up at night were Budapest with its short flight time dotted throughout the city where you the perfect backdrop! from London.

Wine and dine with Jumeirah Frankfurt

OCTOBER MARKS the end of the wine harvest in Frankfurt and to celebrate, Jumeirah Frankfurt has unveiled a series of wine experiences to ensure that everyone from social drinkers to wine aficionados can discover the city’s wine scene. Guests can visit the Rheingau region and enjoy wine tasting at the Kaufmann Vineyard. The hotel will transport guests in a private limousine to the vineyard where they will embark on a sensory journey and try some of the region’s finest wines. The experience will be complemented with cheese that matches the notes of the served wine, and can be enjoyed for £80 per person. Jumeirah Frankfurt will also be hosting a series of Winemakers Dinners taking place on October 25 and November 29. Guests can indulge in a four-course dining experience at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Max on One Grillroom, which will be paired with wines. Guests can visit the city and stay with Jumeirah Frankfurt from £193 per night. For more information, email [email protected] S03 TB 2009 2019 News_2_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:18 Page 9

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk AGENT BULLETIN 9

AGENT TRAINING

ABTA HAS released a limited number of complimentary training places for travel agents. The events will provide an opportunity for agents to hear from expert speakers about the latest market trends, gain advice on how to better sell and market their travel products, and network with suppliers. To apply for one of the places, agents should email [email protected]

TOURISM NEW Zealand has launched the 100% Pure Welcome – 100% Pure New Zealand programme. A range of sales tools will be on offer, including themed itineraries, videos from local guides, and interactive content to enable UK agents to sell New Zealand more confidently. For more CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION... Balkan Holidays celebrated 50 information, visit https://traveltrade.newzealand.com years of chartering flights from Manchester Airport. Wayne Szczambura, regional sales manager for Balkan Holidays, was presented with a certificate to mark the occasion.

AGENT INCENTIVES

● TRAVEL 2 IS offering agents the chance to earn up to £50 T2 Rewards per package booking. Agents making a qualifying booking can claim double rewards if they email the reference to [email protected] within seven days of the booking being made. The final closing date is September 30. Agents who are not registered for the loyalty programme should email [email protected] with the following details: first name, last name, email address, agency name, ABTA number and address.

● TO CELEBRATE the launch of its UK and Europe 2020 brochures, Shearings Holidays is giving agents 20 chances to win a selection of prizes this month. Agents who make any 2020 booking can enter into the prize draw. For a chance to win, agents should email their 2020 booking references to [email protected] with ‘Great Prize Giveaway’ in the subject line. Bookings must be made by September 30.

COMPETITIONS!

NEW: Win a £100 Majestic wine voucher with Premier Holidays

Deluxe Spa Break for two with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

Win a two night stay in Lucerne

Win a £50 Love2shop voucher with Via Rail

FOR ALL COMPETITIONS VISIT travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions S03 TB 2009 2019 News_2_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:18 Page 10

10 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

LATAM opens up South America for Finnair A trip to Downton Abbey

SHEARING HOLIDAYS is promoting a five-day ‘Highclere – Home of Downton Abbey’ coach tour for 2020, an ideal way for customers to follow in the footsteps of the Crawley family from the Downton Abbey TV show.

Jane Atkins, the operator’s managing director, said: “We all know the power that film FINNAIR CUSTOMERS in São Paulo, Brazil, and in of Partnerships and Alliances, locations can have on driving looking to fly to Latin Santiago, Chile, via five said: “We are excited to be holiday demand. Downton Abbey America are getting a boost European gateways: able to offer these great new is such a popular show with thanks to a new codeshare London Heathrow, Paris destinations for our customers of all ages that I have agreement announced with Charles de Gaulle, Madrid, customers. We also welcome no doubt the new film will drive LATAM Airlines Group. Barcelona and Milan. LATAM customers to explore interest in visiting Highclere.” The partnership will offer Similarly, LATAM’s LA everything Helsinki and The five-day coach tour departs new destinations for Finnair code will be added to Finnair Finnair have to offer.” on various dates between May and customers, as LATAM’s flights between Helsinki and Soledad Berrios, LATAM August 2020, and includes a full flights will be the first to be London Heathrow, Paris Airlines Group Director of day visit to Highclere Castle. flown to South America with Charles de Gaulle, Madrid, Strategic Alliances, said: Now well known as Downton a Finnair code. Barcelona and Milan, “As part of our commitment Abbey, this trip offers the chance The deal will see Finnair’s providing LATAM to connecting Latin to explore the opulent State Rooms AY airline code added to passengers with easy access America with the world, and the gardens where the lives of LATAM’s transatlantic flights to Finland. this new agreement will the aristocratic Crawley family and between Finnair’s gateways The new Finnair offer our passengers easier their servants have unfolded to in Europe and LATAM’s hubs codeshare flights to São access to exciting millions of viewers. in São Paulo and in Santiago. Paulo and Santiago are destinations in Finland Prices start from £309 per This includes flights available for sale, for flights via Helsinki.” person, including four night’s half between Finnair’s hub in starting October 1. For further information visit board accommodation and Helsinki and LATAM’s hubs Philip Lewin, Finnair’s head www.Finnair.com two excursions.

Unrestricted access in Jerusalem

THE OLD city of Jerusalem has become more accessible for both wheelchair users and the visually impaired, thanks to improved infrastructure and audio apps to help residents and visitors better navigate the small streets and alleyways of the Old City. Wheelchair-bound visitors and residents can now enjoy the historic and cultural wealth of the city, as four kilometres of streets in the Muslim, Armenian and Christian quarters are adapted, and about two kilometres of handrails were installed alongside staircases. The East Jerusalem Development Company has produced a printed accessibility orientation map, along with a dedicated app in eight languages, that enables real-time navigation between the alleys and sites (GPS-based, similar to Google Maps). Visitors to the Old City are invited to download, free of charge, accessible guided tours in the "Vocal Tours of the Old City" application. To find out more, visit en.citiesbreak.com S03 TB 2009 2019 News_2_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:20 Page 11

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk PUZZLE BULLETIN 11

WIN A GOODY BAG EACH WEEK! A

B SUDOKU C Complete this Su Doku puzzle and then go to the competition section on travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions and submit the highlighted numbers. A... B... C... D... Closing date for entries is Thursday, September 26th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. D

WHERE AM I?

Beaches and marinas wind into pretty piazzas and warrens of intriguing streets. This area is a real Italian find.

Across Down 1. What is the check-in called that 1. City hosting the opening match of the 2019 Rugby Jet2holidays offer at selected departure World Cup (5) airports before 12 noon? (8) 2. European river, sounds accommodating (3) 6. This country is home to the Masai Mara 3. East Sussex seaside resort (4) National Reserve (5) 4. Composer of the opera, Carmen (5) 8. Capital of Liechtenstein (5) 5. Canada's smallest province, Prince ___ Island (6) 9. Belgian port (6) 7. Actress, ___ Friel recently seen in Deep Water (4) 11. Currency of Thailand (4) 10. Country between the Black Sea and the 13. Surname of the sixth wife of Henry VIII (4) Mediterranean (6) 14. Rhodes resort with ancient clifftop ruins (6) 12. Capital of Peru (4) 17. Medieval city in Tuscany (5) 13. Traditional Cornish snack (5) 18. Capital of Jordan (5) 15. Egyptian desert (5) CROSSWORD 20. Scandinavian capital city (8) 16. Largest island in the Seychelles (4) 19. Manchester international airport code (3)

The Jet2Holidays Su Doku winner for Tuscany - I? am Where MAN. 19. MAHE, 16. SINAI, 15. PASTY, 13.

September 6th is Lorraine House from LIMA, 12. TURKEY, 10. ANNA, 7. EDWARD, 5. BIZET, 4. HOVE, 3. INN, 2. TOKYO, 1. Down:

Three Way Travel Ltd in Congleton. HELSINKI. 20. AMMAN, 18. SIENA, 17. Across: 1. TWILIGHT, 6. KENYA, 8. VADUZ, 9. OSTEND, 11. BAHT, 13. PARR, 14. LINDOS, LINDOS, 14. PARR, 13. BAHT, 11. OSTEND, 9. VADUZ, 8. KENYA, 6. TWILIGHT, 1. Across: Setember 6th Solution: A=4 B=9 C=5 D=2 Solution:

For more games and prizes, please sign up for emails on the jet2holidays trade site and Partners2success on Facebook… S03 TB 2009 2019 News_2_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:20 Page 12

12 BULLETIN BRIEFING SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk Industry insight by...

Current events may shake consumer confidence but John Escott, general manager of the Elite Travel Group, looks to how the industry is working to turn this around…

I THINK it’s fair to say that working hard and often late secure alternative products they sell. politically, we are in a bit of a into the night to reschedule employment. Again, this The past few weeks have mess. The uncertainty their affected clients. It is a highlighted the importance of shown the destruction that surrounding Brexit and the shame that disputes between having an up-to-date agency hurricanes can cause, with behaviour of our politicians is companies and their agreement in place, but more Dorian battering the Bahamas making us the laughing-stock employees can have such a importantly, being clear on and leaving devastation with of the world. It is most devastating effect on the travel what protection is available the loss of many lives. I have definitely not helping plans of so many people, and what products are not been fortunate to visit the consumer confidence, and hopefully talks can continue financially covered. I think it Bahamas on many occasions, this may have an effect on and a resolution found before came as a big shock to many as it is such a wonderful people’s travel plans. I have a further strikes occur. agents to find out that destination. This hurricane feeling that the Brexit debate Both of these factors will accommodation only will unfortunately affect is going to go on and on and have an effect on us all, but bookings were not covered tourism for many years to will not be sorted by October one thing is for certain, by any financial protection, come, cutting a vital source 31. The last thing we need as people will still want to travel leaving them out of pocket. It of income to these islands. an industry is an extension to and fingers crossed that all of has highlighted a potential Hopefully it will bounce back January or later, which has this uncertainty will not deter problem and we all need to as a destination soon, my been now been insisted upon too many from doing so. be clear what is and isn’t heart goes out to them. by the opposition alliance. It was a shock to hear financially protected. I know, easyJet Holidays have This will probably result in a about the collapse of the as a consortium, we have promised to launch their new continued lack of consumer tour operation by the end of confidence and uncertainty, the year and have vowed to affecting the crucial pre- and One thing is for certain, shake up the market. It will post-Christmas booking certainly be interesting to see periods. The other political people will still want to what their proposition is and uncertainty is that a General how it is different to what is Election will need to be held travel and fingers crossed currently on offer. For a at some point very soon. The number of years now, Jet2 sooner our politicians can get that all of this uncertainty have certainly stormed ahead their act together the better, and have built up an excellent but unfortunately I do not see will not deter too many reputation for their holidays. any quick solution. How will easyJet Holidays As if Brexit wasn’t from doing so... work with the trade? How will enough, we now have agent prices compare with strikes at Ryanair and British those available directly on Airways to knock the Malvern Group and one of been updating the members their website? It is certainly confidence of the travelling the trades’ most well-known to help provide clarity so that an event to keep an eye on public even more. I know brands, Superbreak. It is such everyone has all the and with the number of many Elite Travel Group a shame for the great team necessary information, flights they operate, easyJet members, and their there and I do hope that all of enabling them to make an could certainly cause ripples suppliers, have been them have now managed to informed decision as to what through our industry. S04 TB 2009 2019 Air Travel_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:26 Page 13

AIR TRAVEL

Jetting to Japan BRAZIL BOUND FINNAIR WILL be launching a new direct flight from Helsinki to Virgin Atlantic’s new São Paulo flights go on sale with GOL Sapporo in Japan, on December codeshare opening up more of Brazil 15. Previously, powder hounds VIRGIN ATLANTIC and GOL Delight, Classic and Light our new partnership with have had to change in Tokyo have announced a new available. Virgin Atlantic.” before flying on to Hokkaido Island codeshare agreement, Juha Jarvinen, chief With matching baggage but this new route makes Finnair allowing customers to commercial officer at Virgin allowances across the two the only European airline to offer seamlessly connect from Atlantic, said: “We’re delighted airlines as well as baggage direct flights to the Japanese ski Virgin Atlantic’s new Heathrow to announce our codeshare being checked through to the resort. Opening just in time for the to Sao Paulo service onto agreement with GOL. Brazil is destination, the partnership winter season, the twice-weekly flights across Brazil. such a rich and diverse aims to offer an excellent flights will be served on an Airbus GOL is one of the largest country and we’ll be able to connecting experience. Both A330, departing Helsinki every domestic carriers in Brazil and offer seamless connections for airlines will offer Wi-Fi and Sunday and Thursday, until March will offer connections to 37 customers from our new inflight entertainment across 27, 2020. Thanks to the service, destinations across the Heathrow to Sao Paulo service their fleet. customers can also check their country, including Brasilia, Rio onto 37 destinations across skis and baggage direct through de Janeiro and Recife. Both Brazil. Customers will soon be to Sapporo from Heathrow, airlines plan to expand their able to enjoy Virgin Atlantic’s avoiding the time-consuming codeshare further with the signature service to South hassle of re-checking luggage addition of flights to America’s largest country.” during the transfer from Argentina, Chile and Uruguay, Eduardo Bernardes Neto, international to domestic flights in in the near future. SVP of sales and distribution Japan offered by other airlines, to The daily flights from at GOL, added: “We’re reach Sapporo. Heathrow to Sao Paulo have delighted to partner with To celebrate the launch, the now gone on sale with Virgin Virgin Atlantic ahead of its airline has released promotional Atlantic’s inaugural flight arrival into Brazil next year. fares available to book until scheduled for March 29, 2020. GOL offers a leading route October 9. Prices from Heathrow It will be served by a Boeing network and high quality start from £538 return, while fares 787-9 with the brand’s service and we’re thrilled to for premium customers flying in signature Upper Class, be able to connect even Business Class start from £2,238. Premium and Economy more customers thanks to Visit www.finnair.com S04 TB 2009 2019 Air Travel_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:26 Page 14

THE EAST MIDLANDS SUMMER BALL THE EAST Midlands Summer Ball, organised by Midland Travel Trade Club and sponsored by JTA Travel, Classic Collection Holidays, Bedsonline, Travel Bulletin and Elite Travel Group was held at the Radisson Blu, East Midlands Airport. Here’s a sample of the evening in pictures... S04 TB 2009 2019 Air Travel_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:26 Page 15

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk AIR TRAVEL 15

Flying to Fortaleza IN FAIR VERONA AIR EUROPA is to commence New easyJet service flying from Edinburgh to services to Fortaleza, in north east Brazil, from this December. Verona has been confirmed The service will begin on December 20 with twice weekly flights, and then increase to three flights a week from June 2020. Fortaleza is the airline’s fourth destination in Brazil, confirming Air Europa’s commitment to the country, where it already operates services to Salvador de Bahia, Sao Paulo and Recife. The Fortaleza long-haul flight will depart from the airline’s hub at Madrid’s Barajas International Airport, with connections available from the twice-daily service from Gatwick airport. Flights will depart from Madrid on Tuesdays and A NEW year-round service to the Italian city of sights and culture of other cities across the Fridays at 15:45, arriving into Verona will take off this December, as easyJet world and we are always working to build and Fortaleza at 20:10. Inbound expands its choice of destinations available grow our destinations list.” flights will depart from from Edinburgh Airport. Neil Slaven, easyJet’s UK country director, Fortaleza at 22:10 and arrive The inaugural flight will depart on added: “We are really excited to have into Madrid at 09:50 the December 7, operating on Tuesdays and announced Scotland’s only direct winter following day. From June 21 Saturdays on an A320 aircraft. It’s the airline’s connection from Edinburgh to Verona which next year, this presence will be 40th route from Edinburgh and comes just a will commence this December. We remain reinforced further with an few months after the airport reached its 50 committed to expanding our network from increase of flights to three per million passenger milestone. Scotland and this is a particularly exciting week, operating on Gordon Dewar, Edinburgh Airport’s chief addition to our base at Edinburgh. We are Wednesdays, Saturdays and executive, said: “It’s great to see easyJet confident it will provide a popular addition to Sundays. The flight will be continue to grow at Edinburgh Airport by easyJet’s network. In total, easyJet now operated by the Airbus 330- adding another new destination to its already serves 40 destinations from Edinburgh 200, with a seat capacity of extensive list, something that increases spanning the UK and Europe and this new 299 passengers, 24 of which choice and flexibility for passengers. We route will complement our existing network of are business class seats. know there’s a desire to travel and take in the leisure and business flights.” Go to www.aireuropa.com

Lounging in Phuket with Bangkok Airways BANGKOK AIRWAYS has introduced new passenger lounges at Phuket International Airport, offering its customers more convenience and comfort whilst they wait for their flights. The new lounges are located near gate four on the second floor of the Domestic Departure Terminal with a new Boutique Lounge (for economy class passengers) that can accommodate up to 40 passengers and a Blue Ribbon Club Lounge (for business class passengers and FlyerBonus Premier Members) which can accommodate up to 20. Complimentary snacks and hot or cold beverages will be offered in both, as too magazines, newspapers and free Wi- Fi. Daily opening hours of the lounges are from 04.30 -22.00. For more details go to www.bangkokair.com S04 TB 2009 2019 Air Travel_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:27 Page 16 S05 TB 2009 2019 Lapland_Layout 1 18/09/2019 13:00 Page 17

LAPLAND

IN THE LAP-LAND OF LUXURY Scandinavia Only adds romantic log cabin retreat

RESPONDING TO demand from travel option for those seeking a more intimate agents, Scandinavia Only has holiday experience. Jo Chapman, introduced a new luxury, log cabin operations manager, added: “There is experience to its short-break winter more to an exclusive holiday than collection for 2019/2020. accommodation alone, and we knew Arctic Retreat in Swedish Lapland is a that as this was such a secluded three-night break, aimed at couples location we needed to provide a more seeking a high-quality and individually complete holiday experience. We have tailored holiday experience, with a host therefore included individual of activities on offer and a chance to see snowmobile, dogsled and snowshoe the Northern Lights. “We have received activities and, as the retreat has a very numerous requests from agents who strong focus on locally sourced, home- have customers wanting a very special made, organic food, each day is holiday to celebrate a romantic occasion punctuated with delicious culinary – everything from marriage proposals to experiences – indoors and outdoors. 50th wedding anniversaries so this is There is still plenty of time for our response” said Suzel Taber-Shaw customers to relax and we have a small from Scandinavia Only. number of optional activities if they Arctic Retreat nestles amongst the want to really pack in as much as forests and lakes of Swedish Lapland possible which include a visit to a Sami and is a boutique eco-lodge providing family, a moose safari and a total spa high-quality accommodation in experience in the privacy of their own individual, designer log cabins, each of log cabin.” which has a living room with a roaring Prices start from £2,995 per person log fire and floor-to-ceiling north facing and include flights, private guided windows (ideal for Northern Lights transfers, three-nights accommodation watching), and a private hot-tub outside at Arctic Retreat in a private luxury log sledding safari including Fika and a on the terrace. cabin with outdoor hot-tub, full-board Northern Lights snowshoe safari. The retreat is small and private – throughout, free use of the resort’s For further information, visit collectively accommodating a total of sauna, a three-hour snowmobile safari www.scandinaviaonly.co.uk or call only ten people – making it a good including Fika, a three-hour dog- 01274-875199. S05 TB 2009 2019 Lapland_Layout 1 18/09/2019 15:49 Page 18

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk ON THE LEVI-AL Learn more about Lapland’s largest new hotel opening for 2019, focusing on art and design

ALREADY A stylish new accommodation option featuring in operators’ portfolios, the Design Hotel Levi will be making its grand debut this winter season. Earmarked as the largest hotel project in the Arctic region, the £10 million project will open in the village of Levi in Finnish Lapland on December 12. The hotel is being built adjacent to its sister property, Levi Hotel and Spa and will offer 77 rooms and suites that aim to incorporate authentic Finnish art and Arctic nature into its design. Sanna Leinonen, CEO of Levi Hotel Spa Resort, said: “We wanted to create something new and thrilling for the area. A hotel which really stands out from what the region already offers and in total contrast to the lodge style accommodation you traditionally find in this area.” The hotel can cater to couples, groups and families alike; is located at the foot of Levi Ski Resort slopes (which offers more than 40 pistes for downhill skiers and snowboarders of all levels) and provides a convenient central location for access to Levi village and all its amenities. During the winter there are 230kms of maintained cross country tracks, 886kms of snowmobile trails, 20kms of winter walking and biking routes for visitors to enjoy. Other activities that can be expereinced from the property include northern lights safaris, ice karting, cross country snowshoeing, moonlit horse riding adventures, visits to Santa’s cabin, and other holistic experiences such as ‘latte and art’ walks and ‘tree cocooning’. The hotel is approximately a 10 minute drive from Kittila which receives both international and domestic flights, with increased frequency during the winter season. Alternatively flying into Rovaniemi can be an option, with Levi a 170km drive or approximately 2.5 hours transfer time away, during the winter months. Double rooms will start at 290 Euros on bed-and-breakfast with Loft rooms available from 420 Euros and suites at 900 Euros per night. For more information go to www.designhotellevi.fi S05 TB 2009 2019 Lapland_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:44 Page 19

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk LAPLAND 19

Head off-grid with Regent’s Arctic winter brochure

IN 2020, Regent Holidays will have been sending travellers to Iceland and the Arctic regions for 45 years. To mark this milestone, the operator’s new Arctic Winter 2019/20 brochure features an array of new experiences, new luxury accommodation and opportunities to explore the landscapes of the Arctic, including off-grid winter glamping in Sweden and adventures in Finland’s wilderness. Andrea Godfrey, the company’s general manager said: “Drawing inspiration from authentic Arctic communities and traditions, the range to the Norwegian border; boutique tepee on the ice or ride a hovercraft at of options for visitors to Sweden, accommodation at the new Design Brandon Lodge in the Bay of Bothia; Norway and Finland now is fantastic – Hotel Levi; and Skabma Log Cabin, a take a sauna on a raft frozen into the there are so many ways to discover this timber cabin in Saariselkä which can be lake at an off-grid Aurora Safari Camp; winter wonderland.” booked exclusively for up to 14 guests, sleep in a new floating hotel, complete Away from the classic Father with an option to employ private chefs. with open-air cold bath; and feast on Christmas experience, Finnish Lapland In the snowy reaches of Swedish Nordic cuisine at a retreat owned by the is increasingly about elegant retreats Lapland, Regent Holidays has added winner of Swedish Masterchef. and authentic Lappish experiences. The adventurous excursions, rustic cabin For more information go to operator is offering all-inclusive stays in lodges and remote winter glamping. www.regent-holidays.co.uk or call 020- the remote Paishill Private Lodge close Options include a chance to dine in a 7666 1290. S05 TB 2009 2019 Lapland_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:44 Page 20

20 LAPLAND SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Searching for Santa

INGHAMS HAS issued a fresh, new booked through Inghams on holidays to Lapland brochure for Winter 2019/20. Levi, Ylläs and Saariselkä. The offer Among some of the highlights of its applies to new bookings for seven-night expanded programme to Finnish Lapland holidays departing in January and is the introduction of the new five-star February and now, newly added, on Design Hotel Levi (the full details of which December 1 and December 8. This offer can be found on p.18) where the operator is subject to availability. is able to offer a seven-night winter For those looking ahead to a special holiday on a bed-and-breakfast basis from Santa Break to Lapland in 2020/21, the £1,789 per person. This is based on two operator has also now put its Santa Breaks sharing in January 2020 and includes programme on sale for next year. Three- flights from Gatwick, Manchester or night breaks depart on Sundays and Bristol to Kittilä and airport transfers. four-night breaks depart Wednesdays, There is also the option to upgrade to with flights from Gatwick, Manchester and half-board. Bristol airports, and accommodation Adding to the buzz around the options ranging from half-board hotels to brochure’s launch, the operator has added self-catering apartments and log cabins. extra dates to its ‘Big Three’ Excursion On each of these trips, families will get combined reindeer and husky safari and Bundle to Lapland. In celebration of the to visit Santa’s hideaway to help the elves farm visit; experiencing a snowmobile company’s 85th birthday this year, the bake gingerbread and play festive games safari through the snowy wilderness; and bundle offers £85 off per person (or pay before a private family meeting with Santa downhill ski lessons with an English- only £85 for children aged four - 12 Claus himself with a souvenir gift to take speaking instructor. years) when a Husky Safari, Reindeer home. Optional excursions include the For more information, visit Safari and Snowmobile Safari are pre- chance to meet Comet the Reindeer on a www.agents.inghams.co.uk

Dashing through the Snow

WITH CHRISTMAS just around the corner, Transun is offering a wide selection of holidays designed to offer customers greater convenience and agents with more selling opportunities no matter the timetable of their clients. For example, for those who may be short on time, the operator can offer families a fast and fun-filled ‘Winter Wonderland’ one day trip, available from 20 regional airports and running throughout December until Christmas Eve. Alternatively for those looking to experience the calm and tranquillity of Finnish Lapland on a short break during the festive season, the operator can also offer: two-, three- and four-night ‘Snow is Falling’ breaks in Karesuando; ‘Dashing through the Snow’ three- and four-night breaks in Kilisjarvi; and a ‘Wonderful Christmas Time’ three- and four- night breaks in Karesuando over the Christmas period. Each break offers a private meeting with Santa and a small present gifted to children, a husky experience, snowmobile adventure and reindeer sleigh ride. Optional extras across these tours range from ‘Ice Fishing by Snowmobile’, dedicated Northern Lights Husky and Snowmobile Safaris, and even the chance to spend a night in an igloo. Dino Toouli, head of trade relations for the operator, said: “As pioneers of holidays in Lapland, Transun know the region inside and out and with over 35 years of experience have specially-designed breaks to show Lapland at its truest; flying deep within the Arctic Circle to North Western Finland, far away from the busy, commercial resorts of Saariselka and Rovaniemi.” Day break prices start from £519 for adults and £499 for children with plenty of free child places still available on selected departures. Short break prices start from £999 for adults and £899 for children with half- price child places also available. For more details, call 01865-265200 or visit www.transun.co.uk S06 TB 2009 2019 River Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:50 Page 21

RIVER CRUISE

A Seine-sational step MYTH BUSTERS to greener cruising Titan debunks river cruise myths with some help from its customers CROISIEUROPE’S THREE ships on the Seine – MS Botticelli, MS EARLIER THIS year, Titan including couples, solo whole experience and Seine Princess and MS Renoir – Travel carried out some travellers and ocean cruise challenge their own now run on gas to liquid (GTL) fuel. research to get a better devotees - and offered them perceptions of what river understanding of how its a five-night voyage along the cruising can offer. customers perceived Rhine onboard MS Bellejour, “As well as debunking a river cruising. with a camera crew in tow to number of river cruise The study found that 66% capture each traveller's misconceptions, we wanted state food as a vital factor honest assessment. to highlight that when deciding between Some of the holidaymakers shouldn’t let different tours and that misconceptions that were any preconceived ideas stop Europe remains the top spot countered in the videos were them from trying a different for river cruising amongst ‘poor ship facilities’, ‘lack of holiday experience. UK holidaymakers; the space’, ‘mediocre food Travelling outside your Patrick Schmitter, co-owner of Danube, Rhine and Douro quality’ and ‘not suitable for comfort zone, visiting a CroisiEurope, said: “We are were stated the most desired solo travellers’ with all myth destination you wouldn’t committed to doing our utmost to and travelled waterways. The busting participants enjoying normally consider, or constantly reduce our Loire was found to be the their experience. Some opening yourself to new environmental impact. This is why fourth most desired river to disembarked converted to experiences is one of the we are very proud to announce the cruise but also the least river cruising and others greatest thrills travel can use of this new fuel, which is a safe travelled by its customers. concluded that they would provide. With Titan, guests product and classified as rapidly The survey further revealed happily consider booking can embrace these new biodegradable. Its use significantly that 28% of its respondents one in the future. travel adventures with the reduces air pollutant emissions.” had never been on a river Andy Squirrell, the assurance and comfort that Having collaborated closely with cruise: suggestive that a large operator’s managing they’re in trusted hands, river bunkering company, AS number might be holding onto director, said: “We’re thrilled travelling as part of a group Energy, the cruise company is now some preconceptions around with the results of our recent led by destination experts.” keen to introduce GTL fuel on its cruising which are influencing myth-busting campaign. It To check out the videos head remaining fleet in France and is their holiday choices. was an absolute joy to see a over to the company’s investigating how best to supply The operator selected a group of travellers who had YouTube channel or for more its ships on the Loire, the Rhone group of anti-river cruise never considered river product details visit and the Gironde. travellers from the survey - cruising before embrace the www.titantravel.co.uk Visit www.croisieurope.co.uk S06 TB 2009 2019 River Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:50 Page 22 S06 TB 2009 2019 River Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:50 Page 23

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk RIVER CRUISE 23

A private audience SAILING SOLO with King Tut No single supplement for solo travellers on select cruises from TAUCK IS launching two new itineraries in Egypt next year, Emerald Waterways offering an exclusive after-hours and private tour of the Valley of the Kings which includes a private visit to the tomb of Tutankhamun. The operator’s CEO, Dan Mahar, said: “Tutankhamun’s tomb lay basically undisturbed for more than 3,000 years. It’s far easier to reflect on the sheer magnitude of the history you’re experiencing if you’re with a small, intimate group, after everyone else has left for the day. It elevates an already memorable visit to a truly once- RIVER CRUISES are well suited to solo travel of Osijek and the Serbian capital of in-a-lifetime experience.” and Emerald Waterways is going further to Belgrade and marvel at the Iron Gate. Both of the new tours are welcome these kinds of travellers by Rhine River cruises are also available with centred around a multiple-night waiving the single supplement on selected no single supplements from £3,845 on the Nile cruise aboard a luxury sailings in Europe. eight-day ‘Charms of Holland & Belgium’ river Oberoi riverboat; the 13-day Solo travellers can simply pay the twin- cruise. Spaces are still available for solo ‘Jordan & Egypt’ trip (from share price, but enjoy single occupancy, on travellers on this year’s October 18 sailing or £6,590 per person) will feature a ten of the line’s European itineraries. Five 2020 bookings; as too are last minute three-night cruise on the Oberoi cabins per sailing will be available with this departures on the eight-day ‘Sensations of Zahra, while the ten-day ‘Jewels no single supplement offer. Lyon & Provence’ departing on October 26 of the Nile’ itinerary (from Clients can cruise the Danube in 2020, on along the Rhôone from £3,095 per person. £5,140) will include a four-night the nine-day ‘Enchantment of Eastern For more information contact voyage on either the Oberoi Europe’ from £2,895 and join locals for [email protected] or go Zahra or the Oberoi Philae. lunch in their home in Croatia, enjoy tours to www.emeraldwaterways.co.uk Visit www.tauck.co.uk

Twice as nice: two rivers, one cruise THE RIVER Cruise Line has added several news trips for 2020 aboard the new four-star MS Arena, including a 13-day ‘Journey along the Danube to the Rhine’. The cruise is one of a few to offer a route combining two of Europe’s greatest rivers, heading westwards via Bavaria before crossing the Main-Danube Canal to reach the heart of the Rhine Valley. Beginning in Budapest and finishing in Cologne, the cruise features Eastern European landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historic capitals, including Vienna, Bratislava and Salzburg. Along the banks of the Rhine, the ship will pass terraced vineyards, castles and monasteries, with itinerary highlights including the medieval centre of Bamberg, Würzburg’s baroque architecture, and the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. The tour departs on October 16, 2020 and is priced from £1,495 per person based on two sharing an en- suite cabin on a full-board basis, including flights from Heathrow to Budapest, returning from Cologne. For more information visit www.rivercruiseline.co.uk or call 01858-435655. S06 TB 2009 2019 River Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:50 Page 24

24 RIVER CRUISE SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

AmaWaterways moves into 2020 with trade focused strategy

AMAWATERWAYS HAS a raft of selling initiative which places our travel agent opportunities for agents in 2020; issuing partners front and centre in our its latest brochure along with news of decision-making, the 2020 brochure will the soon to arrive AmaSiena, and now be easier to order via TradeGate.” additional itineraries and land To coincide with the brochure’s extensions – including an itinerary launch, all European cruises are offered specifically designed for AmaMagna. with savings of between £400 and Stuart Perl, the company’s managing £1,000 per person, plus free flights from director, said: “2020 looks set to be a choice of six UK departure airports another exciting year for and overseas transfers. The level of AmaWaterways with the arrival of saving varies from month to month with AmaSiena, an expanded programme for the maximum £1,000 available for AmaMagna and new pre- and post- departures in March, April, November cruise land programmes. and December 2020. Meanwhile, guests “With our trade focused sales booking a Mekong cruise will enjoy strategy, we want to do everything we savings of £400 or £800 per person, can to make it easy for our travel agent depending on the time of year. The programme for 2020. The ship will sail partners to sell our cruises. They told us promotion is available for bookings three new itineraries and cruise along that they would prefer us to change our made up until December 31. the Lower Danube for the first time. brochure from landscape to portrait, to The double-width AmaMagna, which The river cruise line is also to expand allow easier racking and greater in store launched earlier this summer, has its fleet with the addition of the 156- visibility, so that is what we have done reportedly proved a popular addition passenger AmaSiena, its 24th ship, for the 2020 programme. In another to the fleet and has an extended in July 2020. Explore the Ganges (& beyond)

HERITAGE RIVER Journeys, the river cruise brand from the acres, located 15 minutes away from the national park which is Exotic Heritage Group, has announced three special renowned for being one of the largest tiger reserves in India. departures in 2020 that combine a Ganges cruise from Kolkata Prices start from approximately £2,475 per person for two with a stay at The Bagh Resort, the group’s hotel located in the people sharing one cabin/room. This includes the seven- central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. night cruise, four nights at The Bagh Resort, transfers, The 11-night itinerary starts with a seven-night Ganges domestic flights, most meals and some drinks, sightseeing river cruise onboard RV Bengal Ganga, departing from and and excursions as per programme, cultural performances, returning to Kolkata. The journey explores the rich history of educational talks, cooking classes, ship tour, service fees and the river, visiting temples, monuments and palaces with national park entry fees. International flights are additional, revitalising activities - such as yoga, meditation and spa as are drinks not included in meal times, tips and gratuities, treatments - offered on-board. incidentals and visas. Following the cruise and an internal flight to Raipur, guests Departure dates onboard Bengal Ganga fall on January 14, will continue their discovery of India with a four-hour drive March 24 and April 1, 2020. Flights from the UK depart one day from Raipur Airport to Kanha National Park. Guests will stay for prior to cruise departure. The new package is also four nights at The Bagh Resort, a forest retreat spread over 20 commissionable to the trade. S06 TB 2009 2019 River Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:50 Page 25 S06 TB 2009 2019 River Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 15:50 Page 26 S07 TB 2009 2019 Ocean Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 17:11 Page 27

OCEAN CRUISE

NEW ON THE SCENE Upgrade on Princess PRINCESS CRUISES is offering Six-star luxury meets discovery as Scenic Eclipse holidaymakers free stateroom makes its grand debut upgrades on 1,250 voyages setting sail in 2019, 2020 and 2021. SCENIC LUXURY Cruises guests to 38 countries in some indulgence, guests can stay in Guests booking an ocean view and Tours has released its of the world’s most stunning the Owner’s Penthouse Suite stateroom can take advantage of a digital brochure for the and remote locations – these spanning 247sq.m with a free upgrade to a balcony, while 2020/21 and 2022 season of are what truly set us apart.” separate sleep zone, lounge those sailing on the cruise line’s Discovery Voyages on-board Highlights of the 2020-2022 and dining areas, spa five newest ships – Royal Princess, Scenic Eclipse. brochure include: two full bathroom, and a private Regal Princess, Majestic Princess, The news swiftly follows the Antarctica seasons, with 20 terrace with a Jacuzzi. Sky Princess and Enchanted debut of the six-star vessel last departures and the On-board guests will have Princess – will receive an upgrade month, an event which Glen opportunity to view a Solar the choice of ten included from a balcony to a mini-suite. Moroney, Scenic’s chairman Eclipse from the deck of the dining experiences. There is Additionally, on select British and founder, described as: Scenic Eclipse; an exploration also a Senses Spa; a state-of- Isles cruises departing in 2020 on “the fruition of many years of of ‘Wild Alaska and British the-art theatre for Regal Princess, guests will benefit planning and work from a Columbia’; a journey to see entertainment and lectures; from an upgrade to a balcony from large and dedicated team to the wonders of Latin America two six-guest helicopters and an inside stateroom. The offer runs create a vessel and an on ‘Baja to Costa Rica Whales a submarine capable of until October 31. experience which has set a and Wilderness’; the chance taking guests to depths of Included in the deal are: the 12- brand new benchmark in ultra- to become a ‘High Arctic nearly 200m. day ‘Search for the Northern Lights’ luxury discovery cruising. Explorer’; and a ‘Panama and Currently the company is cruise on Island Princess, departing “We are extremely proud of Columbia Discovery’. offering Earlybird Fares October 3, 2020; the 17-day this ship and what it brings to The vessel features 114 (subject to availability), plus an ‘Mediterranean and Greek Isles’ the world of cruising. In terms suites set across five decks, Early Payment Discount of up cruise on Crown Princess, of innovation, technology and with a total capacity of 228 to £250 per person when the departing November 6, 2020; and design it is second to none. guests (200 for the Arctic and balance is paid in full by the seven-day ‘Eastern Caribbean’ The on board helicopters and Antarctica journeys), all with December 31. cruise on Enchanted Princess, submarine and our hand verandas and private butler Go to www.scenic.co.uk to departing November 28, 2020. crafted itineraries that take our service. For the ultimate in find out more. Visit www.princess.com S07 TB 2009 2019 Ocean Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 17:11 Page 28

28 OCEAN CRUISE SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Celebrity Cooking WORLD RECORD Club on P&O Viking’s around the world journey attempts to break the record HOST OF the BBC's Saturday Kitchen, Matt Tebbutt and London- for longest continuous passenger cruise based chocolatier, Paul A Young are to join P&O Cruises flagship Britannia in the Caribbean this winter, as part of the cruise lines’ ‘Friends of the Cookery Club’ programme. During the cruise, Young will offer interactive master classes in the Marco Pierre White Cookery Club where he will share some of the essential skills of making fresh, hand- made fine chocolates. Tebbutt and Young will then jointly host a chef’s table dinner inspired by Caribbean flavours and paired with wines. The cruise line’s president, Paul Ludlow, said: “As the holiday company for anyone with an interest in food, I’m delighted that VIKING SUN and its 930 onboard guests are already be attempting the world record for the our guests will have the cruising toward a Guinness World Record for longest continuous passenger cruise four opportunity to meet and learn from the ‘longest continuous passenger cruise’. years later is remarkable. We can’t wait to hear Matt and Paul who are incredibly Setting sail from Greenwich this month, the all our guests’ stories when they get back.” passionate about their craft.” vessel is currently serving Viking’s new The eight-month journey will see guests Ultimate World Cruise itinerary, an epic 245- explore Scandinavia, the Caribbean and day journey spanning six continents, 51 destinations throughout South America countries and 111 ports. This will see Viking before calling on the remote tropical islands Sun fully circumnavigate the globe, bringing of the South Pacific. Viking Sun will then guests to some of the world’s most legendary continue its journey along the coast of cities and far-flung destinations, before Australia and through Asia before returning to returning to London in May 2020 whereupon the Mediterranean and Europe. an adjudicator will confirm the successful For clients inspired by the attempt, the Tebbutt and Young will be joining attempt with a certificate presentation. cruise line also has a new 161-day 2020-2021 Britannia’s fourteen-night Caribbean Wendy Atkin-Smith, UK managing director Viking World Cruise planned, departing from cruise, departing on November 8. for the cruise line, said: “We broke our own Miami to London on December 14, 2020 with Select prices start from £1,491 per Guinness World Record in 2014 when we a lead-in price of £45,995 per person. person, including flights. christened 16 new river ships in one day. We For more information go to For more information visit only launched ocean cruises in 2015 so to www.vikingcruises.co.uk or call 0800 298 9700. www.pocruises.com

Win a Christmassy cruise with CMV CRUISE AND Maritime Voyages (CMV) is offering three agents plus a guest the chance to win a festive cruise. The three-night cruise on board Magellan departs from the London Cruise Terminal at Tilbury on December 15. Agents will be invited to get into the festive spirit as they sail along the River Seine to the medieval city of Rouen, with a chance to explore its Christmas Market and stalls filled with seasonal gifts, hand-crafted decorations and tasty treats, and then onto the port of Honfleur before returning to London Tilbury. For a chance to win, agents need only to make a CMV booking by September 30 and to send their details through. Any bookings for a 2019 CMV Magical Festive Cruise will qualify for two chances to win. Agents should email their name, ABTA number and booking reference to [email protected]. The winners will be announced on CMV’s Trade Facebook page – Cruise & Maritime Voyages Trade Team, and on the Trade Partners section of their website. S07 TB 2009 2019 Ocean Cruise_Layout 1 18/09/2019 15:52 Page 29

SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk OCEAN CRUISE 29

Andy Harmer, director at CLIA Hurtigruten launches its first UK & Ireland, shows how the departures from Dover

cruise industry is working hard HURTIGRUTEN HAS announced that it will now be offering winter towards a sustainable future… sailings from the Port of Dover as part of its new Norway Expedition 2021/22 programme. Available from October 2021 to March 2022, the 14-day voyages are priced from £3,299 per person and will depart from Dover on-board the MS Maud, one of three Hurtigruten vessels to be transformed into a hybrid powered expedition cruise ship. Travelling along the coast of Norway, this voyage will see guests offered a free activity every day to explore the local history, culture and wildlife. Expedition team members will be on board to share their knowledge of the SEPTEMBER MARKS ‘Cruise Month’ for the UK and Irish cruise hidden gems to be found at each port of call and those looking for more industry, a month where cruise lines, travel agents and adventure can choose amongst other excursions that incorporate fishing, consumers come together through an integrated campaign to hiking, and a Northern Lights safari at night –available at an additional charge. promote cruise holidays. Anthony Daniels, Hurtigruten’s managing director for the UK, said: One of the central themes for this year’s Cruise Month is “We are delighted to launch our first ever season from Dover. This new sustainability, as we showcase the enormous efforts cruise lines route offers a truly exceptional way for guests to explore the coast of are making to reduce the industry’s environmental impact and Norway and experience the Northern Lights all at the convenience and to create a sustainable future. comfort of a UK departure. Not only will we take guests to new Whilst the industry has always had to comply with strict highlights, but with an increased presence of Expedition team leaders maritime environmental laws, cruise lines are also investing onboard we will help new and existing guest to become immersed in huge amounts of time and money to go above and beyond the rich wildlife and cultural offering of Norway.” what is required. Work is being done every day by teams of More information can be found on www.hurtigruten.co.uk experts across the industry to ensure a sustainable future. Lines are banning single-use plastics, stepping up on recycling and waste disposal, and have already invested $1 billion in new technologies to significantly reduce ships’ air emissions. No industry has a stronger interest in protecting the oceans we sail and the destinations we visit than the cruise industry. As responsible tourism becomes an even more important factor in the decision making process when booking a holiday, it’s essential that we’re equipped with the facts on the work being done by cruise lines to create a sustainable future. Hurtigruten MS Maud (MS Trollfjord) To find out more about how the cruise industry is taking steps Image Credit: Solfrid Bøe to protect the environment, visit www.cruising.org/sustainability S07 TB 2009 2019 Ocean Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 17:12 Page 30

30 OCEAN CRUISE SEPTEMBER 20 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk MINI WAVE Celebrity Cruises’ latest campaign passes more rewards onto agents

CELEBRITY CRUISES has launched its success ahead of the busy booking richest offering of benefits, promotions season, and all accessible via Celebrity and new initiatives for its autumn ‘Mini Central, its dedicated online training and Wave’ campaign, reinforcing the marketing hub. brand’s commitment to trade partners To give the Mini Wave campaign an and their customers. additional boost, the cruise line has The campaign will run until relaunched its Selling Guide. The latest November 18 and focus on the version includes full details of the itineraries on sale for 2020 with the new promotions, plus the latest information Edge Class ship, Celebrity Apex, plus on Celebrity Edge dining options, the newly revolutionised Celebrity Celebrity Flora itineraries, an Alaska Silhouette (both sailing out of destination feature, the full story of Southampton) a central highlight. Celebrity Silhouette’s ‘Revolution’ In addition to a Celebrity Moments upgrade and return to the UK, and more initiative to win one of 200 places on our Mini Wave campaign has been on the on-going Celebrity Moments Celebrity Apex, new Celebrity Weekend designed in order to make Celebrity booking incentive. Winner competitions will give travel Cruises’ sailings the easiest and most Providing guests with greater partners the chance to win Apex- rewarding to sell, giving even more flexibility, the company has further branded suitcases when they make a guests the opportunity to experience announced its ‘Book with Confidence’ booking with the cruise line and post luxury holidays at sea. Guests are spoilt commitment. Under the promise, guests about it on social media using the hash for choice with the incredible new- making a new booking by November 18 tags #CelebrityLovesAgents and generation modern luxury of Celebrity will be entitled to change or amend their #WeekendWinner. Over 400 travel Cruises’ Edge-class ships, alongside the booking free of charge before the end of partners will also have the chance to $500million ‘Revolution’ of the rest of its the year – on sailings from April 2020 win 1,000 Celebrity Rewards points fleet, including Celebrity Silhouette through to June 2021. They also retain (worth £10), awarded by the line’s sales when she returns to the UK next year.” their deposit and benefits they received managers during shop visits. Agents will have access to new video at the time of booking, with no Claire Stirrup, director of sales for the content, enhanced brand and campaign additional administration charges. cruise line in the UK and Ireland, said: assets, and direct mail that can be For more information, agents can visit “Listening to our trusted agent partners, personalised in order to equip them for www.celebritycentral.co.uk

What’s the most interesting souvenir you’ve picked up on holiday?

Jeanette Ratcliffe Simon Eddolls Hannah Carter Publisher Sales Director Events Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] A giant donkey from Spain Train whistle A fossil

Georgia Lewis Matt Gill Ashweenee Beerjeraz Managing Editor - News Senior Account Manager Events Assistant [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] A traditional Ghanaian dress An American flag Key Ring of 7 Earth colours

Adam Potter Tim Podger Alice Tully Features Editor Account Manager - Far East Events Assistant [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Wine made by Austrian monks An African fertility statue Cherry & walnut rakija from Dubrovnik

Mariam Ahmad Bill Coad EVENTS Staff Writer - News Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] A glass cat A conch shell from Cayman Islands PRODUCTION Vidwan Reddy Sarah Terry [email protected] Online Editorial Assistant Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] CIRCULATION Always the clichéd keychains Pieces of art from various countries [email protected] S07 TB 2009 2019 Ocean Cruise_Layout 1 17/09/2019 17:12 Page 31 S07 TB 2009 2019 Ocean Cruise_Layout 1 18/09/2019 14:30 Page 32